In the spring of 2025, Consequence’s Mary Siroky dove deep into the decline of musical guests on late night talk shows, with Jimmy Kimmel Live booker Mac Burrus saying that “music has been a priority at Jimmy Kimmel from day one.” Things may be changing at the ABC talk show, though, as The Hollywood Reporter reports that music bookings for the show are dropping to two a week going forward.
The THR article doesn’t name any specific reason for why the show is changing its approach to music, and confirms that the show will remain the same length as before. The news comes as the pending end of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will further contract the opportunities available for bands and artists in late night. Kimmel’s contract has been extended into 2027, meaning there will still be some opportunities for artists like The Pretty Reckless and De La Soul to get a national spotlight.