Jimmy Kimmel Says Goodbye to America, Ends His Show with Bold Move to Canada

In a moment that left viewers speechless and the entertainment industry shaken, Jimmy Kimmel dropped a primetime bombshell on his loyal late-night audience: He’s done. After 22 years at the helm of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the comedian-turned-cultural fixture has officially announced the end of his show—and his permanent move out of the United States.

“This is it,” Kimmel said during Monday night’s monologue, his voice uncharacteristically solemn. “I’m moving to Canada. And I’m never coming back.”

A Legacy That Helped Define Late-Night

Since its premiere in 2003, Jimmy Kimmel Live! has been a late-night juggernaut. Known for its sharp political satire, unforgettable celebrity interviews, and viral segments like “Mean Tweets” and “Lie Witness News,” Kimmel’s show evolved into more than just comedy—it became a mirror to America’s cultural and political psyche.

Kimmel, now 57, often used his platform to advocate for healthcare reform, speak emotionally about personal tragedy, and take pointed jabs at political figures. His boldness won him admiration—and criticism—in equal measure.

Why Now? Why Canada?

Kimmel didn’t mince words about his departure. “It’s not burnout. It’s not ratings. It’s not even politics anymore,” he said. “It’s about peace.”

Sources close to the host say Kimmel and his wife, writer-producer Molly McNearney, have long flirted with the idea of relocating abroad. But with recent political tensions in the U.S. and a desire for a quieter, more private life, the couple has reportedly purchased property in British Columbia, near Vancouver.

“He’s been thinking about this for a while,” one network insider told The Hollywood Insider. “The recent direction of the country pushed him to take the leap.”

A Tearful Goodbye to Late-Night

The farewell was emotional. In front of a live audience that had no idea what was coming, Kimmel thanked his staff, his family, and the viewers who “let me be part of your bedtime ritual.”

“I started this show as a guy who liked to tell jokes,” he said. “I’m ending it as someone who believes laughter can be healing—but I also believe sometimes, it’s okay to walk away.”

The final episode featured clips from his most iconic moments, surprise appearances from longtime guests like Matt Damon (yes, they hugged), and a live performance from his house band, Cleto and the Cletones.

Hollywood Reacts

The entertainment world erupted with tributes and disbelief.

Stephen Colbert called Kimmel “a brother in satire.”
Jimmy Fallon tweeted: “Late night won’t be the same without you. Canada’s gain is our loss.”
Barack Obama posted on Threads: “Thanks for the laughs and the courage, Jimmy.”

Even Donald Trump, a frequent target of Kimmel’s biting monologues, chimed in with a typically cryptic Truth Social post: “One less clown. Sad!”

What’s Next for the Slot—and for Kimmel?

ABC has yet to announce a replacement for the 11:35 PM time slot. Rumors swirl about several rising stars possibly stepping in—names like Hasan Minhaj, Amber Ruffin, and even Trevor Noah have surfaced.

As for Kimmel, he says he’ll still be around—just not in the way fans are used to.

“I’m not disappearing,” he said. “I might write. I might travel. I might fish. But I won’t be behind this desk again.”

End of an Era

Kimmel’s exit is more than just the end of a show. It marks the close of a chapter in American culture—one where late-night hosts weren’t just entertainers, but provocateurs, advocates, and, at times, moral compasses.

In a media landscape that’s rapidly evolving, Kimmel’s departure leaves a void that will be hard to fill.

But if his final words are any indication, he’s leaving on his own terms:

“To all the people I pissed off—thank you. You made me think harder. To all the people I made laugh—you made this worth it. Goodnight, America. I’m off to find a colder, quieter life.”