Jimmy Kimmel has again discussed the possibility of retiring from Jimmy Kimmel Live!, but his latest comments suggest his decision is increasingly tied to the programme’s public role rather than personal ambition. He said the show gives people frustrated by current events an outlet, leaving him with what he called a “non-financial” reason to continue hosting.

Kimmel, the longest-serving current US late-night host, has presented the ABC programme since 2003 and is contracted with Disney until May 2027. He does not describe retirement as stopping work altogether, but as moving on to something different; his wife and executive producer Molly McNearney acknowledges both the strain on family life and the importance she believes the show’s voice still has.