Jimmy Kimmel Live
Parents say
Based on 18 reviews
Kids say
Based on 9 reviews
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this late-night comedy/talk-show series has had its fair share of controversial moments. The series integrates skit-like commercials that plug products from the show's sponsors. The language is occasionally strong (though words like "f--k" and "s--t" are bleeped), and many of the jokes and spoofs include strong sexual innuendo. Note: Most teens who watch late-night shows like this check them out on a "time-shift" basis via DVR or online clips, rather than at the original 11:30 p.m.-or-later air time -- which is better for their sleep habits!
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What's the Story?
JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE combines traditional variety show stunts with major celebrity performances to create its signature brand of late-night entertainment. Creator/host Jimmy Kimmel entertains audiences with his deadpan humor during his stand-up monologues and interviews with celebrities, while noteworthy performances from major musical bands and up-and-coming artists add to the entertainment. Running gags and bits with titles like "Unnecessary Censorship" and "Touch the Head" are often carried out with the help of computer graphics, YouTube videos, and the show's in house band. Also adding to the fray are skits that plug products from the show's sponsors.
Is It Any Good?
The show features the traditional stunts of any late-night talk/comedy show, while also managing to attract a diverse group of celebrity guests and performers to keep things interesting. And Kimmel's incorporation of family and friends into the show adds a fun variation to the typical late-night shenanigans.
While Kimmel's humor sometimes seems understated, over its tenure, the show has occasionally faced potential censorship thanks to some of his iffier remarks. But Kimmel's ability to successfully create entertaining segments reacting to these controversies has made the series even more popular. Whether you find Jimmy Kimmel Live hilariously funny or downright silly, the show has left an indelible mark on late-night entertainment.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about whether comedians have a responsibility to be careful when telling jokes or playing pranks on people. Who or what determines when comedians "go too far"? Would you consider Kimmel a good role model?
Is censorship of the media ever a good thing?
How do late-night shows influence other areas of the media?
TV Details
- Premiere date: January 26, 2003
- Cast: Jimmy Kimmel
- Network: ABC
- Genre: Comedy
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: February 24, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
For kids who love staying up to date
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