Additional Coverage:
Jimmy Kimmel is taking a voluntary break from his late-night show, with a star-studded lineup set to fill in during his absence.
On the June 18 episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the 58-year-old host announced he would be stepping away for the next two months, joking that this hiatus is “voluntary” – a nod to his brief suspension last fall after controversial remarks about Charlie Kirk. This summer break follows a particularly tense period for Kimmel, who has recently been involved in a public spat with former President Donald Trump, sparked by a provocative joke about First Lady Melania Trump at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
Kimmel’s summer off isn’t unusual; he’s taken extended breaks each year since 2020, a clause he negotiated into his contract. Unlike last summer-when the show paused due to Hollywood strikes-this year’s hiatus will feature guest hosts stepping in to keep the show running.
ABC revealed that comedian Tiffany Haddish will kick off the guest-hosting duties the week of July 6. She’ll be followed by Colman Domingo, Ike Barinholtz, Anthony Anderson, and musician Jelly Roll. The program will air reruns for two weeks before the guest hosts take over the stage.
Adding a special twist, Kimmel mentioned inviting Rosie O’Donnell for an appearance “as a special treat for our commander-in-chief,” playfully urging President Biden to “not do anything stupid” while he’s away. O’Donnell and Kimmel share a history of outspoken criticism toward Trump, further coloring the ongoing political drama surrounding the show.
The recent tensions trace back to Kimmel’s April 23 monologue, where he made a biting joke about Melania Trump at a mock White House Correspondents’ Dinner. The joke drew sharp rebuke from the First Lady, who accused Kimmel of divisive and hateful rhetoric on social media, demanding ABC take action against him. The controversy intensified after an armed suspect attempted to breach the actual dinner event just days later, heightening sensitivities.
Kimmel responded by defending his remarks as lighthearted comedy, emphasizing his long-standing opposition to violence and urging a reduction in hostile rhetoric across the political spectrum. Despite the backlash, he remains a prominent figure in late-night TV, now passing the torch temporarily as he enjoys his summer respite.