Fans tune in Jimmy Kimmel Live! this summer you might see a different face behind the desk. If Jimmy Kimmel takes its annual vacation, a series of celebrity guest hosts will step in to keep the late-night show going, including comedian and former daytime talk show host Rosie O’Donnell.
Here’s everything you need to know about Kimmel’s hiatus and when O’Donnell will take over hosting duties.
Is ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ Cancelled?
No, Jimmy Kimmel Live! has not been cancelled. Kimmel announced he is taking a two-month voluntary summer hiatus, a tradition he has followed in recent years, while a rotating lineup of celebrity guest hosts keeps the show on the air.
While revealing his plans, Kimmel joked about the break, saying, “I’m taking the next two months off, this time voluntarily,” causing the audience to laugh.
When will Rosie O’Donnell replace Jimmy Kimmel?
O’Donnell will guest host Jimmy Kimmel Live! for one week starting Monday, August 17, 2026. Her appearance marks a return to the late-night spotlight for the comedian and former talk show host, who has spent much of the past year living in Ireland while continuing her one-woman show and other projects.
Kimmel announced O’Donnell’s guest hosting stint with a joke aimed at President Donald Trump, with whom she has had a public feud for nearly two decades. “As a special treat for our commander in chief, I asked one of his all-time favorites, Rosie O’Donnell, to be here to keep the hits coming,” Kimmel joked. He added, “All I ask in return, Mr. President, is that you don’t do anything stupid while I’m gone.”
O’Donnell also shared her excitement on Instagram after the announcement, writing, “And I can’t wait!!!”
How long will Jimmy Kimmel be on vacation?
Kimmel is expected to be gone Jimmy Kimmel Live! for about two months. His summer hiatus begins the week of July 6 and will last much of August before he returns to the host’s chair.
The comedian has taken similar summer vacations in recent years, allowing guest hosts to temporarily take over the show while he spent time with his family. This year’s line-up consists of a mix of comedians, actors and musicians, which ensures that Jimmy Kimmel Live! will continue to air new episodes throughout the summer.
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