Fans tuning into Jimmy Kimmel Live! this summer may notice a distinct face behind the desk. As Jimmy Kimmel takes his annual vacation, a lineup of celebrity guest hosts will step in to maintain the late-night show running, including comedian and former daytime talk show host Rosie O’Donnell.
Here’s every part to find out about Kimmel’s break and when O’Donnell will take over hosting duties.
Is ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ Canceled?
No, Jimmy Kimmel Live! has not been canceled. Kimmel announced that he’s taking a voluntary two-month summer hiatus, a convention he has followed lately while a rotating lineup of celebrity guest hosts keeps the show on the air.
While revealing his plans, Kimmel joked in regards to the break, saying, “I might be taking the following two months off, this time voluntarily,” drawing laughs from the audience.
When Is Rosie O’Donnell Filling In for Jimmy Kimmel?
O’Donnell is scheduled to guest host Jimmy Kimmel Live! for one week starting Monday, August 17, 2026. Her appearance marks a return to the late-night highlight for the comedian and former talk-show host, who has spent much of the past 12 months living in Ireland while continuing her one-woman stage show and other projects.
Kimmel announced O’Donnell’s guest-hosting stint with a joke geared toward President Donald Trump, with whom she has had a public feud for nearly 20 years. “As a special treat for our commander-in-chief, I asked considered one of his all-time favorites, Rosie O’Donnell, to be here to maintain the hits coming,” Kimmel quipped. He added, “All I ask in return, Mr. President, is that you simply don’t do anything silly while I’m gone.”
O’Donnell also shared her excitement on Instagram after the announcement, writing, “And I can’t wait!!!”
How Long Will Jimmy Kimmel Be on Vacation?
Kimmel is anticipated to be away from Jimmy Kimmel Live! for about two months. His summer hiatus begins with the week of July 6 and can run through much of August before he returns to the host’s chair.
The comedian has taken similar summer breaks lately, allowing guest hosts to temporarily take over the show while he spends time together with his family. This 12 months’s lineup includes a mixture of comedians, actors and musicians, ensuring that Jimmy Kimmel Live! continues airing fresh episodes throughout the summer.