In a move that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, ABC has signed a groundbreaking $400 million deal with Tucker Carlson to host a new late-night show, set to replace Jimmy Kimmel’s long-running program.
The announcement has ignited intense debate among viewers, industry insiders, and political commentators, given Carlson’s polarizing reputation and the seismic shift this represents for late-night television.
Carlson, the former Fox News host known for his controversial opinions and massive following, is stepping into a space traditionally dominated by liberal-leaning comedians and talk show hosts.
His arrival at ABC marks a significant departure from the network’s established tone, as well as a broader shift in the late-night landscape. With this high-stakes gamble, ABC appears poised to tap into Carlson’s devoted fanbase while attempting to redefine what late-night television can be.
Why Carlson?
Carlson’s selection for this role is as surprising as it is strategic. After parting ways with Fox News earlier this year, Carlson quickly pivoted to building his own platform, releasing exclusive content on social media and maintaining his position as a leading conservative voice.
His ability to attract millions of viewers, even outside of traditional cable news, has demonstrated his unparalleled reach and influence. ABC’s decision to bring him on board suggests that the network is seeking to expand its audience, particularly among conservative viewers who have often felt alienated by mainstream entertainment.
“Tucker is a proven ratings juggernaut with the ability to engage audiences like no other,” an ABC executive said in a press release. “We believe his voice will bring a fresh perspective to late-night television and appeal to a broad spectrum of viewers.”
The deal itself is one of the most lucrative in television history, with Carlson reportedly earning $100 million annually over four years. This eye-popping figure underscores ABC’s confidence in Carlson’s ability to draw viewers and advertisers in an increasingly fragmented media landscape.
The End of an Era for Jimmy Kimmel
Carlson’s new show will replace Jimmy Kimmel Live!, a staple of ABC’s late-night lineup for over 20 years. Known for his mix of humor, celebrity interviews, and political commentary, Kimmel has been a dominant figure in the genre, often taking on current events with a sharp, satirical edge.
However, in recent years, late-night ratings across the board have declined, leading networks to rethink their strategies.
Kimmel, who has occasionally hinted at stepping away from late-night television, issued a statement thanking his fans and ABC for their support. “It’s been an incredible run, and I’m proud of everything we’ve accomplished,” he wrote. “I’m looking forward to new opportunities and spending more time with my family.”
While ABC has framed the transition as a natural evolution, many viewers see Carlson’s arrival as a direct response to the shifting political and cultural climate in America. The move signals a clear effort to diversify late-night programming by appealing to audiences beyond the traditionally liberal demographic that has long defined the genre.
A Polarizing Choice
The decision to bring Carlson to ABC has sparked a firestorm of reactions. Supporters of the move argue that it reflects a necessary shake-up in late-night television, which they believe has become overly predictable and one-sided.
“For too long, late-night has ignored half the country,” one commentator tweeted. “This is a chance to give everyone a seat at the table.”
Conservative viewers, many of whom have long felt excluded by mainstream entertainment, have celebrated Carlson’s new role as a victory for representation in a space they feel has been monopolized by progressive voices. “This is exactly what late-night needs—someone who speaks for the rest of us,” a fan wrote on social media.
Critics, however, see the decision as deeply troubling. Many have accused ABC of prioritizing profit over responsibility, given Carlson’s history of controversial statements and his role in amplifying divisive rhetoric.
“This isn’t about diversity of opinion—it’s about giving a platform to someone who thrives on outrage and division,” one detractor argued. Liberal commentators have also expressed concern that Carlson’s presence on a major network could further polarize an already fractured media landscape.
The Future of Late-Night Television
Carlson’s move to late-night represents a broader shift in the entertainment industry, where traditional lines between news, opinion, and entertainment continue to blur. For ABC, the stakes are high. If successful, Carlson’s show could redefine late-night programming by attracting new audiences and revitalizing a format that has struggled to maintain relevance in the age of streaming and on-demand content.
The challenges, however, are significant. Carlson will need to navigate the expectations of a late-night audience accustomed to humor and lightheartedness while maintaining the hard-hitting commentary that has defined his career.
Striking that balance will be crucial to the show’s success—and to its ability to avoid alienating the very audiences it hopes to attract.
As ABC prepares to launch Carlson’s program, one thing is certain: the network has taken a bold gamble, one that could either pay off as a game-changing move or backfire spectacularly. For now, all eyes are on Carlson as he prepares to step into a role that promises to upend the late-night landscape and spark conversations far beyond the realm of television.
Whether he thrives or falters, his presence will undoubtedly shape the future of the genre in profound and unpredictable ways.