In a recent interview with Variety, Emmy-winning host and comedian Jimmy Kimmel expressed his passionate views on the state of late-night television, particularly in light of his four Primetime Emmy nominations for his shows, including “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, “The Rabbit Hole with Jimmy Kimmel”, and “Who Wants to be a Millionaire”. This interview took place in mid-July, just after CBS announced the cancellation of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” amid a controversial merger between Paramount and Skydance Studios.
Kimmel's frustration was palpable, as he discussed the widespread misconceptions surrounding the late-night format and the media's portrayal of its decline. He challenged the narrative that late-night television is dying, emphasizing that the reports of its demise are greatly exaggerated. His insights offer a valuable look into the evolving landscape of comedy programming and the economics behind television.
What began as a discussion about his Emmy nominations quickly shifted into a robust defense of the late-night genre. Kimmel's candid remarks reflected his deep love for the industry, especially in light of recent challenges faced by fellow host Stephen Colbert. Kimmel stated, “The idea that Stephen Colbert’s show was losing $40 million a year is beyond nonsensical.” He argued that such claims often stem from a misunderstanding of how television revenues work, focusing solely on advertising while overlooking critical components like affiliate fees.
Kimmel, who began his career as a game show host on “Win Ben Stein’s Money”, shared anecdotes from his early days in television. Reflecting on his unexpected Emmy win with Ben Stein, he humorously recounted handing his award to Susan Lucci, the actress famously known for her long streak without an Emmy. This story illustrated his humility and the camaraderie that often exists among television personalities.
Despite the decline of network television, Kimmel highlighted that more people are engaged with late-night shows than ever before, albeit through different platforms. “Our monologues get between 2 and 5 million views every night on YouTube, and that doesn’t even account for other social media outlets,” he stated. He pointed out that even shows like “The Daily Show” are raking in significant viewership, dispelling the myth that late-night content is no longer relevant.
“The narrative that late-night television is dead is simply untrue,” Kimmel asserted. He explained that while traditional viewership on network television has shifted, the audience for late-night comedy is thriving on digital platforms, making it a vibrant part of the entertainment landscape.
Kimmel's support for Stephen Colbert was evident, particularly as he put up a billboard in Los Angeles declaring his intention to vote for Colbert at the Emmys. “It’s a nice statement if he does win,” Kimmel remarked, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging talent and hard work in an industry that often overlooks these aspects.
He described Colbert as “a very moral and ethical person,” and expressed hope that whatever Colbert does next will be even more impactful than his current work. This solidarity among late-night hosts is a testament to the friendships developed in the face of industry challenges.
During the interview, Kimmel also shared a humorous and tense story about an evening with Matt Damon, where an innocent dinner with ribs turned into a near-disaster when Damon began choking. This anecdote not only showcased Kimmel’s comedic timing but also provided a glimpse into their personal friendship.
As the conversation wrapped up, Kimmel reflected on the current political climate, expressing his relief at witnessing public reactions to controversial figures. “If Trump is getting booed at wrestling, America is starting to catch on,” he quipped, highlighting the changing dynamics in public opinion.
This insightful interview with Jimmy Kimmel not only sheds light on his career and personal experiences but also serves as a clarion call for the late-night television industry. With his candid remarks and passionate defense, Kimmel underscores the importance of adaptability and the enduring appeal of late-night comedy in today’s media landscape.
As the 77th Emmy Awards approach, airing live on September 14, 2023, Kimmel’s predictions and endorsements are sure to resonate with audiences and industry insiders alike. This conversation not only celebrates his achievements but also encourages a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding television programming today.
