After 22 years of keeping audiences laughing on ABC, Jimmy Kimmel is confronting a sudden and uncertain halt to his iconic late-night talk show.
While the comedian grapples with the shock of his show being pulled indefinitely, he’s not facing it alone—his staunchest supporter is right beside him: his wife, Molly McNearney.
The Woman Behind the Scenes
Molly McNearney isn’t just any spouse. From 2008 to 2023, she served as head writer on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, shaping the show’s humor and appearing on-screen 11 times, including in her own regular segment, Win Jimmy’s Crap.
Her presence on the show and behind the scenes has made her an integral part of Kimmel’s world—both professionally and personally.
Standing Up to Trump
The couple has often found themselves in the political spotlight.
Last year, Kimmel turned to Molly to fire back at former President Donald Trump’s criticism.
Her sharp response called out Trump’s 34 felony counts of falsifying business records and highlighted pressing social issues, including abortion rights.
Her pointed remarks didn’t shy away from controversy, proving that McNearney isn’t afraid to speak her mind.
Her activism isn’t limited to politics. In 2022, she publicly shared her anti-gun stance, tweeting in support of banning assault weapons and pushing for universal background checks, stressing that children’s safety should come first.
From Work Colleagues to Life Partners
Molly first joined the Kimmel team as a writer’s assistant in 2004, though their romantic relationship didn’t begin until 2010—after Kimmel’s long-term relationship with comedian Sarah Silverman ended.
Despite working closely together, Molly has always maintained a clear line between personal and professional life.
“At home, it’s a different relationship,” she told Glamour in 2014.
“At 10 a.m., he’s my boss, not my husband… He does say he’s my ‘husboss,’ but I refuse to call him that.”
Family Life Under the Spotlight
Now married for 12 years, the couple shares two children: 11-year-old Jane and 8-year-old Billy.
Billy’s open-heart surgery in 2017 for a rare congenital defect drew national attention, further intertwining their family life with public interest.
In addition, Molly is stepmother to Kimmel’s two adult children from his previous marriage: Katie, 34, and Kevin, nearly 32.
Facing ABC’s Decision
Kimmel, a four-time Emmy winner whose contract was set to expire next May, is reportedly furious over ABC’s decision to pull his show following his recent remarks about Charlie Kirk’s assassination.
During his monologues, Kimmel criticized MAGA supporters for politicizing the tragedy.
His comments sparked outrage from the former president, who celebrated the show’s suspension on Truth Social, calling it a “ratings-challenged” program.
What’s Next for Kimmel?
Even with the show on indefinite hold, Kimmel has other outlets to explore.
He can continue hosting his YouTube series, The Rabbit Hole, where he dives into conspiracy theories and current events—ensuring he still has a platform to voice his opinions and entertain fans.