Jimmy Kimmel Hints at Exit from Late-Night TV as Oscars Hosting Looms

As Jimmy Kimmel prepares to host the Academy Awards for the fourth time, he’s quietly hinting that his time on Jimmy Kimmel Live! may be nearing its end.

“This Might Be My Final Contract”

Speaking with the Los Angeles Times, the 56-year-old late-night host admitted he’s seriously considering stepping away when his current deal ends.

“I think this is my final contract,” Kimmel said. “I hate to even mention it because everyone’s laughing at me now—each time I think that, and then it turns out not to be the case.”

Kimmel’s comments come as Jimmy Kimmel Live! celebrates its 21st anniversary, prompting a wave of self-reflection.

Two More Years—and Then What?

Kimmel still has a little over two years left on his current contract. But to him, that already feels like enough.

“That seems pretty good,” he said. “That seems like enough.”

As he looks ahead, he admits he’s unsure how he’ll spend his time after the show. He mentioned several interests—cooking, drawing, even sculpture—but nothing is set in stone.