Jimmy Kimmel Looks Significantly Older After a Year of Hardship (Exclusive)

Jimmy Kimmel is preparing to close the chapter on 2025. According to a source speaking to the National Enquirer, This year has been extremely challenging for him, and instead of bouncing back, hes gradually feeling the weight of everything he has endured. The source adds that Kimmel seems to have aged significantly in a very short period of time.

The loss of his childhood friend and band leader, Cleto Escobedo III, has profoundly affected the Jimmy Kimmel Live! host, now 58, both emotionally and physically. His brief suspension over remarks made after the death of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk has also added strain.

Reflecting on the suspension, Kimmel shared with Stephen Colbert on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (September 30) that he felt devastated when his show was placed on indefinite hiatus. I thought, This is it. Im never coming back on the air, he admitted.

His wife, Molly McNearney, has been a major source of support, both as a partner and executive producer. Yet, the source notes, theres only so much a spouse can do for someone who has faced as much as Jimmy has this year. Its been a very sad time overall.

The outlook for 2026 appears uncertain. Late-night television is facing declining viewership and the surprise cancellation of The Late Night with Stephen Colbert. The source commented, Jimmy isnt giving up, but it might be healthier if he did. Trying to make people laugh night after night while your heart is broken isnt the best way to run a showor to live.

Author: Sophia Brooks