Trump Slams ABC for Bringing Jimmy Kimmel Back

Jimmy Kimmel has been a fixture of American late-night television for over two decades. As the host of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on ABC and a figure with many other media projects under his belt, his financial standing often comes under scrutiny—especially in times of controversy. So, what is Jimmy Kimmel worth in 2025, and how has he built his fortune?

Early Career and Rise to Fame

James Christian Kimmel, born November 13, 1967, in Brooklyn, New York, moved with his family to Las Vegas when he was nine. He got his start in radio—first local stations, then larger ones—before moving toward television. His early success includes work on Win Ben Stein’s Money, co-hosting The Man Show, and developing and producing various comedy and late-night projects.

In 2003, he launched Jimmy Kimmel Live! on ABC. That show, over time, became his signature platform. Over the years, he also served as host for major award shows (Oscars, Emmys), appeared in voice-acting roles, and took part in many other projects.

What’s His Net Worth in 2025?

As of 2025, Jimmy Kimmel’s estimated net worth is around USD $50 million. That number reflects his long tenure in television, earnings from Jimmy Kimmel Live!, hosting fees, production work, endorsements, and investments.

Income Sources & Salary Estimates

Here are the major streams contributing to Kimmel’s income:

  • Salary from Jimmy Kimmel Live!: He reportedly earns about $15 million per year for hosting the show. This is his primary income source.
  • Other television roles: Hosting major events (Oscars, Emmys), and possibly other special appearances, add to his income. While precise figures vary by event, they can fetch large paychecks.
  • Production, executive producer fees: Since Jimmy Kimmel Live! has been on air for many years, and with his role also behind the scenes, Kimmel earns additional revenue from production credits.
  • Endorsements and other ventures: Brand partnerships, licensing, possibly podcasting or digital content also contribute. These may not be as large as his primary television salary but add up.

In various reports, he is ranked among the higher-earning TV hosts. According to some lists, he is placed in the lower bracket of those earning over $10-20 million annually from television and related media.

Real Estate and Assets

Like many successful television personalities, Kimmel has invested heavily in real estate. He owns multiple homes, especially in the Los Angeles area, including in Hollywood Hills and Hermosa Beach. Some of these properties are valued in the millions.

These real estate holdings represent a significant piece of his net worth. They provide both asset value (what the properties are worth) and, in many cases, long-term investment potential.

images 1

Recent Controversy and Its Financial Implications

In September 2025, Kimmel came under fire for comments he made during his Jimmy Kimmel Live! monologue regarding the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist. After those comments, ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! “indefinitely,” and some ABC-affiliated stations (notably owned by Nexstar) dropped the show for the foreseeable future.

Because much of his earnings come from the show and related television appearances, any extended suspension or cancellation would likely affect his income. However, as of late September 2025, Disney (which owns ABC) announced the show will return on September 23.

So, while the controversy may cause short-term impact (lost episodes, possible affiliate disruptions), his long track record, contract arrangements, and multiple revenue streams help buffer against catastrophic loss. But the situation remains one to watch.

What to Consider & What May Change

  • Contract negotiations: Host contracts often include base salary, bonuses, profit shares. If his contract is renewed or renegotiated, his salary could go up. If not, it could stagnate or even decline.
  • Audience, ratings, advertising: Late-night TV depends heavily on ad revenue. If viewership drops (for any reason, including controversy), ad dollars may slide.
  • Diversification of income: Kimmel’s involvement outside just his nightly show (hosting big events, endorsements, production) helps. If one stream encounters difficulty, others might sustain him.
  • Reputation & public sentiment: Media personalities are vulnerable to backlash. Controversies may affect brand deals, partnerships, and affiliate support.

Bottom Line

Jimmy Kimmel, in 2025, is estimated to have a net worth of around $50 million, with annual earnings in the ballpark of $15-16 million from his primary TV show plus other gigs. While recent controversies have temporarily disrupted parts of his media presence, his diversified assets—real estate, production roles, endorsements—suggest he is relatively well insulated from short-term turbulence.

As with many in entertainment, the numbers are estimates—but multiple sources agree that Kimmel’s wealth reflects his decades of work as a late-night host, producer, and public figure. Only time will tell how ongoing controversies and shifts in the media landscape will affect those figures going forward.

By.Wilgens Sirise