Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, is defying the odds and Trump's claims with impressive ratings. In June, the show achieved its highest average monthly rating in its 23-year history, averaging 3.15 million viewers per night, a 24% increase from May. This success is particularly notable given the recent departure of Stephen Colbert from late-night TV and the challenges faced by his replacement, Byron Allen. Kimmel's dominance is further emphasized by his show's top ranking in the 18-49 demographic, with a 112% month-over-month increase. The show's June 3, 5, 8, and 10 episodes attracted over 700,000 viewers in that demographic alone.
This surge in popularity comes as a surprise, considering the ongoing tensions between Kimmel and Donald Trump. Trump has consistently criticized Kimmel's ratings, labeling him as 'ratings challenged' and demanding his firing from ABC. The president's attempts to discredit Kimmel's success are evident in his public statements and social media posts. However, Kimmel's show continues to thrive, with ABC recently renewing his contract until 2027.
What makes Kimmel's achievement even more intriguing is the context of his controversial comments and actions. In September 2025, Kimmel faced temporary backlash from MAGA supporters after making remarks about Charlie Kirk's assassination. Despite the initial controversy, Kimmel has maintained his popularity and continued to challenge Trump's agenda. This resilience and ability to connect with audiences, despite political differences, are what make Kimmel's ratings success all the more remarkable.
The late-night landscape is evolving, with Kimmel's show standing out as a beacon of success in an increasingly competitive market. His ability to engage viewers and maintain high ratings, even in the face of political scrutiny, is a testament to his skill as a host and his show's enduring appeal. As the late-night race continues to unfold, Kimmel's performance serves as a reminder that ratings can be a powerful indicator of a show's success, regardless of political affiliations or personal controversies.
