Jimmy Kimmel’s Age Revealed: 7 Shocking Career Milestones And The Latest On His $50 Million Contract

The question of "how old is Jimmy Kimmel" is a popular search query, and the answer speaks to the incredible longevity of his career in the demanding world of late-night television. As of December 2025, the celebrated host of *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* is 58 years old, having recently celebrated his birthday on November 13th.

This age milestone comes at a time when Kimmel’s career is arguably at its peak, marked by major hosting duties, a high-profile contract extension, and significant personal life changes, including becoming a grandfather. His journey from a radio personality in the 1990s to a four-time Academy Awards host is a testament to his enduring appeal and sharp comedic timing.

Jimmy Kimmel: Full Biography, Profile, and Key Stats

James Christian Kimmel, known professionally as Jimmy Kimmel, has spent nearly three decades entertaining audiences across radio and television. His career trajectory is unique, transitioning from edgy, male-centric comedy to becoming one of the most trusted and influential voices in American late-night.

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• Full Name: James Christian Kimmel
• Date of Birth: November 13, 1967
• Current Age (Dec 2025): 58 years old
• Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
• Hometown: Moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, with his family at age nine.
• Education: Attended Ed W. Clark High School, briefly attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), and Arizona State University (ASU).
• Wife: Molly McNearney (m. 2013)
• Ex-Wife: Gina Maddy (m. 1988; div. 2002)
• Children: Four children: Katie Kimmel, Kevin Kimmel (from first marriage), Jane Kimmel, and William "Billy" Kimmel (from second marriage).
• Primary Role: Host and Executive Producer of *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* (since 2003).

From Radio Sidekick to Late-Night Titan: Kimmel’s Career Evolution

Jimmy Kimmel’s path to late-night was unconventional, lacking the traditional stand-up or improv background of many of his peers. His foundation was built in radio, a key element of his early career milestones.

The Foundational Years in Radio and Comedy Central

Kimmel began his career in radio, a journey that took him to several cities. He was a popular figure on the airwaves, notably spending time at KROQ-FM in Los Angeles as part of *The Kevin & Bean Show* and at KZOK FM in Seattle when he was just 22 years old.

His transition to television began in 1997 as the co-host of the Comedy Central game show *Win Ben Stein's Money*. This role, alongside economist Ben Stein, showcased his quick wit and ability to handle live, unscripted comedy.

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In 1999, Kimmel co-created and co-hosted *The Man Show* with his former radio partner, Adam Carolla. The show, known for its irreverent and often controversial humor, gave Kimmel national recognition and established his comedic persona, paving the way for his late-night debut. He also produced other shows like *Crank Yankers*.

7 Major Milestones That Define Jimmy Kimmel’s Longevity

Kimmel’s career has been defined by a series of high-stakes, high-profile moments, particularly in recent years, which demonstrate his standing as a central figure in American entertainment.

1. The Launch of *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* (2003): Premiering on ABC in 2003, Kimmel’s show was initially seen as an underdog against established hosts like David Letterman and Jay Leno. It ultimately found its footing and has been a staple of late-night for over two decades.
2. First Emmy Awards Hosting Gig (2012): Kimmel was chosen to host the Primetime Emmy Awards, a significant step up that solidified his position as a mainstream host capable of handling major live events.
3. Hosting the Academy Awards (2017, 2018): He hosted the Oscars in back-to-back years, including the infamous "Envelopegate" ceremony in 2017, which he handled with grace and humor, earning him praise.
4. The Emotional Health Care Monologues (2017): Following the birth of his son, Billy, who was born with a congenital heart condition, Kimmel delivered a series of emotional monologues advocating for children's health care. These moments transcended comedy, establishing him as a powerful political and social voice.
5. Hosting the Oscars Again (2023, 2024): Kimmel returned to host the Academy Awards for a third and fourth time in consecutive years, a rare feat that speaks to his reliability and popularity with the telecast's producers and the public.
6. Contract Extension Through 2027: In a major, recent update, Kimmel signed a contract extension with ABC, ensuring that *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* will remain on the air through the 2026-2027 season. This multi-year deal confirms his long-term commitment to the network and the late-night format.
7. Becoming a Grandfather at 57: Adding a personal milestone to his list of professional achievements, Kimmel revealed in a recent year that he had become a grandfather for the first time at the age of 57, a life event he shared with his audience.

The Impact of Jimmy Kimmel’s Age and Longevity on Late-Night

At 58 years old, Jimmy Kimmel is one of the more senior figures in the current late-night landscape, a fact that has allowed him to develop a unique perspective. His age and tenure have given him the authority to tackle serious issues while maintaining his signature comedic style.

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Kimmel’s ability to blend celebrity interviews, viral comedy bits (like "I Told My Kids I Ate All Their Halloween Candy"), and heartfelt, serious commentary (such as his monologues on health care and gun control) is a hallmark of his show's enduring success. This versatility is crucial for any host who hopes to remain relevant for over 20 years.

His contract extension through 2027, when he will be nearing 60, shows that ABC and Disney view him as a vital part of their programming. This stability contrasts with the recent shake-ups and retirements in the late-night space, underscoring his value as a late-night host.

For fans wondering "how old is Jimmy Kimmel," the answer is a number that represents decades of consistent, evolving work. His current age of 58 is less a measure of time and more a marker of his status as a true veteran of American television. His next major birthday, turning 59 in November 2026, will likely be celebrated with another year of high-profile hosting and headline-making interviews.