Controversial Reality Star Emerges As Favorite In Jimmy Kimmel Replacement Odds

Jimmy Kimmel’s sudden suspension from "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" has left Hollywood and late-night TV in shock. After more than two decades at the helm, Kimmel’s exit marks the end of an era for ABC, and questions are swirling about who could possibly fill his shoes. The shake-up comes after Kimmel addressed the way Donald Trump reacted to Charlie Kirk's death during his usual monologue. Some users took to social media to express their disapproval, which led to FCC Chair Brendan Carr criticizing Kimmel, urging affiliates to "push back" on ABC. Just hours later, ABC pulled the late-night show "indefinitely."

With ABC scrambling to decide the future of its flagship desk, oddsmakers in Las Vegas are wasting no time setting the field. From reality TV icons to Hollywood veterans and even a few political firebrands, the latest betting odds reveal some surprising and controversial names in the running.

Leading the pack is Caitlyn Jenner, who tops the odds board at +250 (28.6% implied probability). Love her or hate her, Jenner’s name recognition and political résumé keep her front and center in the conversation. While her outspoken views have made her a polarizing figure, oddsmakers see her as the frontrunner to take over late-night.

Not far behind, Rob Schneider comes in at +400, backed by his "SNL" legacy, Hollywood ties, and headline-making conservative views. He checks both the comedy and political boxes, two areas where ABC may be looking to shake things up.

Meanwhile, Tim Allen rounds out the top tier at +600, with decades of network TV success under his belt thanks to "Home Improvement" and "Last Man Standing." Known as a more measured conservative voice, Allen could represent one of the safer bets for ABC executives.

Mid-tier contenders include Greg Gutfeld (+700), already a ratings powerhouse on Fox but tied down by contracts that would make a network jump difficult.

Dennis Miller (+1000) brings decades of satirical credibility, though critics question whether he can capture younger audiences in 2025.

Then there are the younger, digital-savvy names like Tomi Lahren (+1200) and Steven Crowder (+1500), who could bring in fresh viewers but whose no-filter reputations may prove too hot for a primetime network slot.

Further down the list, things get even wilder. Kid Rock (+1900) offers star power and chaos but has never hosted.

Candace Owens (+2000) could spark instant headlines but remains one of the most divisive figures in media.

Joe Rogan (+2500) is arguably the biggest talker in the world right now, though no one expects him to give up his podcast empire.

James Woods (+3500) brings sharp wit but also a reputation for combative social media spats that might not translate to mainstream audiences.

And then there are the true long shots. Barron Trump (+5000) has been floated as a Gen Z-friendly option, while even Donald Trump (+10000) makes the board, a nod to his "Apprentice TV" pedigree more than any serious consideration.

As The Blast reported, Jimmy Kimmel’s future at ABC took a sharp turn this week after his late-night program was abruptly “pre-empted indefinitely” following backlash over comments he made in a monologue about Donald Trump and Charlie Kirk. The move wasn’t just about ratings or public outrage, though, as it came after direct political pressure from the Trump administration.

According to CNN, Disney executives were warned of a “real, serious threat” to ABC’s broadcast licenses if the network failed to act. Federal Communications Chair Brendan Carr even appeared on a conservative podcast, issuing what sounded like an ultimatum. “We can do this the easy way or the hard way," Carr said. "These companies can find ways to change conduct and take actions on Kimmel, or there’s going to be additional work for the FCC ahead.”

Behind the scenes, Disney is reportedly “hopeful” they can find a path forward, but sources say both sides will need to strike a new agreement before Kimmel returns. The controversy has sparked a political firestorm, with right-wing critics demanding consequences and Disney scrambling to protect its billion-dollar broadcast empire.