In a decision that has stunned the entertainment industry, ABC has ousted beloved late-night host Jimmy Kimmel and installed controversial commentator Tucker Carlson in his time slot—effectively trading comedy for cable news-style provocation. The network confirmed the seismic shift Tuesday, announcing Carlson would bring his signature incendiary commentary to the 11:35 PM slot traditionally reserved for celebrity interviews and lighthearted monologues.
The move marks a radical departure for broadcast late-night television, which has historically served as neutral territory for apolitical humor. Carlson—fresh off his unceremonious Fox News exit—reportedly secured a deal worth nearly triple Kimmel’s salary, signaling ABC’s bet that outrage drives higher ratings than punchlines. Network executives pitched the revamped show as offering “a bold new perspective,” though critics argue it’s simply importing cable news’ toxic divisiveness into entertainment programming.
Kimmel’s two-decade tenure made him a late-night institution, blending sharp comedy with heartfelt advocacy on issues like healthcare. His departure severs one of the last connections to an era when hosts like Letterman and Leno united audiences rather than divided them. Carlson’s hiring suggests ABC now prioritizes viral clips of political rants over Kimmel’s viral segments like “Mean Tweets.”
- Comedy writers lament the death of traditional late-night humor
- Advertisers reportedly hesitate over Carlson’s polarizing brand
- Viewers flooded social media with #BoycottABCLateNight hashtags
Carlson, never one for self-doubt, embraced his new role: “Late-night’s become a safe space for avoiding hard truths. That ends now.” Translation: expect segments about “woke” Halloween candy and dire warnings about immigration to replace celebrity game nights.
The ousted host is already fielding offers, with a Spotify podcast deal likely. His exit leaves Stephen Colbert as the last major broadcast late-night host focused on comedy over controversy—for now.
This gamble reflects TV’s accelerating shift toward outrage-as-entertainment. As streaming drains traditional audiences, networks increasingly chase the viral fury that dominates social media. The risk? Late-night TV—once America’s cultural campfire—may soon resemble just another Twitter feud.
One silver lining: at least we’ll finally get answers on whether Carlson’s bow ties are superglued to his neck.