‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’ to Decrease Music Performances to a ‘Variable’ Number Per Week

ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" is scaling back its nightly musical performances, a source confirms to Variety, marking a significant shift for the long-running program. This decision aligns with broader cost-cutting trends across the late-night television landscape. The change was initially reported by the Hollywood Reporter, which stated performances would be reduced to two per week, though Variety's source indicates the final schedule may be more fluid. Regardless, the era of a musical guest for every episode has ended.

While representatives for the show offered no official comment, industry analysts widely attribute the move to budgetary pressures. Since its 2003 debut, musical performances have been a signature element of "Jimmy Kimmel Live," providing a platform for artists ranging from global icons like Eminem—who once performed from the Empire State Building—and The Weeknd to emerging talent. The show's Hollywood location, adjacent to the historic El Capitan Theatre, has made it a convenient and prestigious stop for touring artists. As media expert Dr. Lena Choi of the Carter Institute notes, "The economics of broadcast television have fundamentally changed. Live music is a major production expense, and in today's fragmented media environment, networks are scrutinizing every cost center, even beloved traditions."

This reduction reflects a wider contraction in late-night TV production. In recent years, competitors like "Late Night with Seth Meyers" and "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" have also eliminated their house bands or trimmed musical bookings. Notably, NBC's "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" now stands as the sole major network late-night program committed to regularly scheduled musical guests.

The performance cutbacks follow a recent one-year contract extension for Kimmel with ABC parent company Disney, securing his role through at least 2027. The comedian, who began his career in radio before transitioning to television with "The Man Show" and "Win Ben Stein's Money," announced the renewal on Instagram with his characteristic humor. This new deal was finalized after a brief September hiatus imposed by Disney, which responded to affiliate station owners' complaints about a monologue referencing the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Variety will continue to report on developments regarding the show's new format. Additional reporting was contributed by Michael Schneider and Brian Steinberg.