Late night show host Jimmy Kimmel signed a deal to stay at ABC through 2022.
Kimmel reportedly talked about leaving ABC when his contract ends at the end of the year, but instead signed a deal to stay for three more years, according to a report published Tuesday by The Hollywood Reporter. ABC President Karey Burke revealed the network wanted to keep Kimmel at the end of March.
“We’ve made it clear that he is a critical member of the family and we want him on our air as long as he wants to be on it,” Burke told The Hollywood Reporter. This season will mark Kimmel’s 20th season with ABC. (RELATED: Kimmel Aims Jokes At CNN After Mueller Collusion Dud)
Kimmel has been in the host spot at ABC since 2003. He trails behind Conan O’Brien and Bill Maher as the third-longest serving late-night show host.
The talk show host has evolved over the years to more than just a comedian. He has used his show as a platform for issues he cares about including universal health care.
Kimmel has also worked on personal projects over the years. On May 2, he opened his own comedy club in Las Vegas and launched a new media company in 2018.