In a surprising move that has sent ripples through the entertainment industry, Disney+ has pulled the plug on Jimmy Kimmel's curated highlights show. The decision to cancel 'Jimmy Kimmel Live: The Best of the Week' is seen by many as a direct result of the streaming giant's refocused content strategy.
The show, which offered a weekly compilation of the best moments from Kimmel's long-running ABC late-night programme, has been removed from the platform entirely. Subscribers can no longer access past episodes, signalling a definitive end to the experiment.
A Strategic Pivot Towards Big Franchises
According to sources close to the matter, the cancellation is part of a broader content optimisation plan. Disney is reportedly prioritising its powerhouse franchises and live sports coverage to drive subscriber growth and retention.
This strategic shift means a greater emphasis on:
- Marvel Cinematic Universe series and spin-offs.
- Exclusive ESPN sports documentaries and studio shows.
- Major flagship series from Lucasfilm and other core Disney brands.
The Kimmel compilation show, while popular, was deemed less critical to the platform's long-term goals compared to these other content verticals.
What This Means for Viewers and the Future
For fans, the removal highlights the transient nature of content on streaming services. Even shows associated with major stars are not immune to corporate strategy changes.
Despite this setback, Jimmy Kimmel remains a cornerstone of Disney's linear television portfolio, with his nightly ABC show continuing its successful run. This decision appears to be solely about the distribution of his content on the streaming service, not his relationship with the parent company.
The move raises questions about the place of traditional talk-show formats in the increasingly crowded and franchise-driven streaming landscape. As platforms like Disney+ battle for market share, the focus seems to be solidly on exclusive, event-level programming that can capture the global audience's attention.
