In a move that’s left the TV world reeling, ABC has reportedly axed Jimmy Kimmel, the king of late-night laughs, and handed his coveted slot to Tucker Carlson, the ex-Fox News lightning rod. Announced on March 27, 2025, this seismic shift swaps Kimmel’s signature humor—think “Mean Tweets” and celebrity banter—for Carlson’s intense, polarizing style. Sources say the deal’s massive paycheck could make Kimmel’s earnings look like pocket change, signaling ABC’s bold bet on a new era where political heat trumps punchlines.

Carlson, who exited Fox amid controversy in 2023, isn’t new to stirring the pot. His “Tucker Carlson Tonight” once reigned as cable’s top draw, pulling millions with unapologetic takes. Now, ABC promises his show will bring “a bold new perspective” to 11:35 PM—less comedy, more crusade. Imagine a monologue pivoting from latte season to national doom; that’s the vibe Carlson’s teased with his claim that late-night’s perfect for “real issues.” It’s a gamble that’s got fans buzzing and critics howling—can a format built on unity through laughter survive this ideological jolt?

Kimmel, a 20-year ABC veteran, built “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” into a cultural juggernaut with wit and heart. His 2022 contract runs through 2025, but whispers of retirement have swirled—he’s mused this might be his “final” gig. Sources say he’s taking this curveball in stride, eyeing a podcast pivot. Meanwhile, Carlson’s arrival feels like a ratings grab, targeting viewers who’d rather stew than chuckle before bed. X posts reflect the divide: some cheer a shake-up, others mourn losing Kimmel’s levity.

The twist raises big questions. Is ABC ditching late-night’s glue for a divisive wedge? Posts on X debunked similar rumors in 2024 as satire—Reuters and Snopes called out a fake $400 million deal—but this time, the chatter’s fresh and unverified. If true, it’s a wild pivot from Kimmel’s Emmy-nominated legacy to Carlson’s megaphone. For now, it’s a shockwave with no official stamp, leaving us to wonder: will late-night TV ever be the same?