BREAKING: ABC has officially pulled “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” off the air following controversial remarks made by host Jimmy Kimmel about conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. This urgent development has sent shockwaves through the late-night television landscape, placing immense pressure on James Dixon, Kimmel’s talent manager, who is now one of the busiest figures in Hollywood.
Reports from Puck reveal that Dixon, along with Kimmel and attorney Andy Galker, held a crucial Zoom meeting on Thursday with Dana Walden, Disney TV co-chair, and Rob Mills, head of ABC late-night, in an attempt to negotiate a return to air. Unfortunately, no agreement was reached, leaving the future of Kimmel’s show uncertain.
Dixon, who founded Dixon Talent in 2001 and saw his firm acquired by WME-IMG in 2015, has represented some of the biggest names in comedy, including Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart. His influence in the industry is undeniable, and his current situation exemplifies the pressures faced by talent managers in a volatile media environment.
Earlier this year, CBS announced its plans to cancel “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” in May 2026, adding to the competitive pressures in late-night television. Now, with ABC’s unexpected move, the stakes are even higher.
In less intense times, Dixon is affectionately known as “Baby Doll,” a nickname derived from his habit of calling everyone by that term, a fact highlighted by Kimmel’s cousin, comedian Sal Iacono. Dixon’s persona contrasts sharply with the seriousness of the current situation, as he navigates the fallout from Kimmel’s comments.
As Dixon works tirelessly to restore Kimmel’s show, all eyes are on ABC and Disney executives to see if a resolution can be reached. The situation remains fluid, and developments are expected soon.
Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story as the late-night landscape shifts dramatically. The implications of this controversy extend beyond just one show, potentially reshaping the future of late-night programming.
