Jimmy Kimmel Says Goodbye: Late-Night Legend Leaves America for Good in Emotional On-Air Farewell

In a moment that stunned both fans and the entertainment industry, Jimmy Kimmel announced during Tuesday night’s episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! that he’s officially stepping away from late-night television—and leaving the United States permanently.

“This is it,” Kimmel declared with a mix of gravity and trademark humor. “I’m moving to Canada, and I’m never coming back.”

After more than two decades behind the desk, Kimmel is closing a defining chapter in television history, one that blended biting political satire, absurd celebrity antics, and deeply human storytelling. His emotional farewell marked the end of an era—and the beginning of an entirely new one.

A Personal and Political Exit

Though he laced his monologue with jokes about Tim Hortons and maple syrup, Kimmel’s decision was clearly not made lightly.

“I love what I do,” he said. “But it’s time for me to focus on my family, my health, and maybe finally figuring out what poutine is all about.”

Kimmel also hinted at deeper frustrations with the current American landscape.

“I’ve said everything I wanted to say on this show. I stand by every word. But now, it’s time to live differently.”

Canada, he explained, offers the quieter life he’s been craving—and the added bonus of universal healthcare.

Reactions Pour In

Social media exploded within minutes of the announcement. Fans, fellow comedians, and even Canadian celebrities weighed in:

Jimmy Fallon tweeted: “Jimmy, the late-night world won’t be the same without you. Canada’s gain is our loss.”

Ryan Reynolds, always ready with a Canadian quip, wrote: “We welcome you with open arms—and ketchup chips. Lots of ketchup chips.”

Fans chimed in with mixed emotions:

“Kimmel moving to Canada is peak 2025 energy.”

“I can’t believe it’s over. He made me laugh through some of the hardest years.”

What Comes Next?

While Kimmel is stepping away from the nightly grind, he left the door open to future possibilities.

“I’m not vanishing completely,” he said with a grin. “Maybe I’ll show up in a Canadian sitcom—or finally release that cookbook I’ve been talking about for a decade.”

A Farewell to Remember

Kimmel ended his final episode with a poignant video montage—featuring unforgettable celebrity pranks, emotional interviews with frontline workers, and hilarious political sketches that defined his voice.

His closing words were simple, heartfelt, and perfectly Kimmel:

“Thank you, America, for letting me into your homes for all these years. I’ll see you when I see you.”

What’s Next for Late-Night TV?

ABC has yet to announce the future of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, leaving fans and industry insiders speculating whether a replacement host will be named—or if the show will undergo a full rebrand. Whoever inherits the slot will have enormous shoes to fill.

As Kimmel turns the page on a remarkable career and heads north, his departure marks more than just the loss of a host—it’s the end of a cultural institution.