Jimmy Kimmel is about to reveal the shocking news that …

Insider says it ‘gives him the perfect excuse’ to make THIS decision

For nearly two decades, Jimmy Kimmel has been a constant companion for millions of night owls seeking humor, candid celebrity moments, and his signature blend of mischief and heart. But now, after years of dropping hints about his eventual exit, the 57-year-old host has made up his mind to step away from Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the talk show that made him a household name.

Kimmel has long joked about retiring. Audiences have grown used to hearing him quip, “I won’t be doing this forever.” However, in recent weeks, what once seemed like a running gag has taken on a new weight. Speaking honestly, he admitted: “The reality is I’m not going to do this forever. At a certain point, it is going to have to end.” Fans who thought the statement was just another one-liner now see it for what it truly is: a bittersweet reality.

What brought this decision to a head? A deeply personal milestone: Jimmy Kimmel just became a grandfather for the first time. His eldest daughter, Katie Kimmel, 33, gave birth to a baby girl, and the arrival of this new family member has profoundly shifted Kimmel’s perspective on life and work. In his signature humorous style, he told his audience, “We are back to work after an extra day off. You know, we were supposed to have a show last night, but we didn’t because my daughter had a baby last night.”

Behind the jokes lies a sincere truth. An insider recently revealed to Radar Online that becoming a grandfather has been an emotional turning point for Jimmy. “Jimmy will announce he’s quitting soon for good – as he wants to spend time with his growing family,” the source shared. “Becoming a grandfather has really hit his age home with him, and he knows life is precious. He doesn’t really want to spend it talking nonsense with celebrities anymore.”

For his fans and colleagues, this news feels like the end of an era. Jimmy Kimmel Live! premiered in 2003 and has weathered fierce competition to become one of ABC’s most successful late-night offerings. Kimmel’s style, blending irreverence with genuine warmth, brought countless viral moments—from his hilarious celebrity roasts and pranks to his unexpectedly moving monologues on social and political issues.

Despite the fun, hosting a nightly show is relentless work. Taping five nights a week, staying on top of current events, and constantly creating new material take their toll. At 57, Kimmel seems ready to exchange the bright lights of the studio for quiet mornings with his family and afternoons watching his granddaughter grow up.

It’s not that Kimmel plans to vanish completely from the spotlight. Sources confirm he still intends to host high-profile events like the Oscars. “He’ll still do events like fronting the Oscars, but his day job will soon be gone as he wants to spend as much time as possible with family,” the insider said. In many ways, it’s the best of both worlds for Kimmel: stepping back from the daily grind while staying connected to the world of entertainment on his own terms.

Fans have already started flooding social media with messages of gratitude and nostalgia. Many recall his heartfelt moments—like his tearful monologue about his newborn son Billy’s health battles—and his boldness in speaking truth to power, which endeared him to viewers far beyond the laughs.

ABC, the network that has housed Jimmy Kimmel Live! for over 20 years, has yet to confirm who might fill the giant shoes he leaves behind. Speculation is rife: will they promote an up-and-coming comedian, or tap another established personality to keep the late-night flame alive? Whoever steps in will face a tall order; Kimmel’s unique brand of humor and humanity is irreplaceable.

As Kimmel prepares to say his final goodbye, he does so not with sadness, but with gratitude and anticipation for the next chapter. Friends close to him say he’s a “big softie and sentimental at heart,” and now, more than ever, he wants to embrace that side of himself fully.

To millions of viewers, Jimmy Kimmel has been more than a TV host—he’s been the voice that made them laugh on their worst days, the comedian who wasn’t afraid to be vulnerable, and a cultural commentator who used humor to navigate turbulent times. As he trades in Hollywood’s chaos for a grandfather’s peaceful moments, his legacy will remain bright on screen and even brighter in the memories he leaves behind.

Jimmy Kimmel, thank you for every laugh, every tear, and every honest moment. Enjoy this well-deserved new beginning.