LOS ANGELES — With Jimmy Kimmel Live suspended by ABC, speculation is swirling about whether the late-night staple will return and who might take over if it doesn’t.
According to betting odds released by BetOnline.ag, the chances of the show not returning in 2025 sit at 1/4, an implied probability of 80 percent. That has fueled interest in the long list of potential replacements, where several sports and media personalities are suddenly part of the conversation.
Greg Gutfeld, host of Fox News’ Gutfeld!, opened as the favorite at 4/1, followed closely by comedian Theo Von (5/1) and “Kill Tony” podcast host Tony Hinchcliffe (7/1). Former late-night fixture Conan O’Brien (10/1) is the top traditional candidate.
But two names from the sports world are drawing particular intrigue: ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith and conservative commentator Clay Travis. Smith, who has built a reputation as one of television’s most outspoken and animated personalities on First Take, is listed at 12/1. Travis, the founder of OutKick and a regular presence on Fox Sports and Fox News platforms, stands at 20/1.
The mix of names highlights a shift in the late-night landscape. Oddsmakers have placed right-leaning voices prominently at the top of the board, alongside comedians and legacy figures. Other well-known candidates include Dr. Phil and Joe Rogan (both 15/1), Jimmy Fallon and Craig Kilborn (20/1), and Adam Sandler and Jon Stewart (25/1). Longshots include Oprah Winfrey, Seth Meyers, Trevor Noah (all 100/1), and Tom Brady (200/1).
The suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live comes as networks weigh the future of traditional talk shows in a fragmented media environment. BetOnline has also set odds on which late-night program could be the next to face cancellation or suspension, with The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon listed as even money (1/1).
For now, ABC has not announced whether Kimmel will return. But with betting boards updating in real time and names ranging from comedians to sports commentators to Hollywood stars, the speculation around late-night television’s future is only growing louder.