Full Breakdown
Jimmy Kimmel's Ratings Surge Defies Trump's Claims
1/14/2026, 2:03:31 AM
Kimmel's Viewership Gains in 2025
In a notable turn of events, Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show, "Jimmy Kimmel Live!", has emerged as the only late-night talk series to gain viewers in 2025, according to Nielsen ratings. The show experienced a 14% increase in total viewership year-over-year, alongside a 4% rise in the key 18-49 demographic. This growth comes after Kimmel's brief suspension from ABC in September 2024, following his critical comments regarding the response of MAGA supporters to the death of conservative podcaster Charlie Kirk. Kimmel was reinstated just six days later, following significant pushback from fans, celebrities, and lawmakers.
Kimmel's return was marked by a record-breaking monologue that attracted 6.3 million live viewers, making it the most-watched episode in over a decade. The subsequent YouTube upload of this monologue garnered 23 million views, further solidifying his popularity. Despite these successes, ABC recently implemented budget cuts, reducing the frequency of music performances on the show.
Trump's Ongoing Criticism
Former President Donald Trump has consistently criticized Kimmel, claiming that his ratings are "terrible" and asserting that Kimmel lacks talent. In March 2024, Trump stated, “Jimmy Kimmel is—every night he hits me … I guess his ratings are terrible… He’s not a talented guy.” Following Kimmel's suspension, Trump reiterated his disdain on Truth Social, declaring, “Kimmel has ZERO talent, and worse ratings than even Colbert, if that’s possible.”
Despite Kimmel's ratings success, Trump's remarks reflect a broader trend of criticism aimed at late-night hosts, including calls for the firings of Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers. Trump's comments came in the context of a significant shift in late-night television viewership, where Kimmel's growth stands in stark contrast to the declining audiences of his peers.
Late-Night Landscape in 2025
While Kimmel's show thrived, other late-night programs struggled. Stephen Colbert's "Late Show," Jimmy Fallon's "Tonight Show," and Seth Meyers' "Late Night" all reported losses in total viewers, continuing a downward trend observed over the past decade. Colbert, despite his show being canceled, maintained the highest average viewership among network late-night shows with 2.55 million viewers, while Kimmel followed with 2.01 million, and Fallon lagged behind at 1.32 million.
Official Statements & Responses
ABC has not publicly commented on the budget cuts affecting Kimmel's show, nor has it addressed Trump's ongoing criticisms. The network's decision to reinstate Kimmel after his suspension indicates a recognition of his value to the network, particularly in light of his recent ratings success.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Trump's comments argue that his attacks on Kimmel and other late-night hosts reflect an attempt to undermine their credibility and influence. Supporters of Kimmel appreciate his willingness to address political issues and challenge Trump, viewing his ratings success as a validation of his approach.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Jimmy Kimmel is—every night he hits me … I guess his ratings are terrible… He’s not a talented guy,” — Donald Trump, Former President
- “Reacting to Kimmel’s suspension the following year, Trump posted to Truth Social, “Kimmel has ZERO talent, and worse ratings than even Colbert, if that’s possible.” — Donald Trump, Former President
In summary, Jimmy Kimmel's ratings increase in 2025 stands in stark contrast to the declining viewership of his late-night counterparts, challenging Trump's assertions about Kimmel's talent and popularity.
