Rosie O’Donnell, Jelly Roll, and Colman Domingo are among the celebrity guest hosts set to take over Jimmy Kimmel Live! this summer while Jimmy Kimmel steps away for a two-month hiatus. Late-night television is preparing for a seasonal shake-up as one of its most recognizable hosts gets ready to step away from the spotlight for an extended break. The temporary absence is set to bring a fresh lineup of familiar faces to viewers, creating an intriguing summer for fans of the long-running ABC program.

While guest hosts have often stepped in for late-night personalities over the years, this latest rotation features a mix of comedians, actors, and musicians. Their appearances promise to offer distinct styles and perspectives while keeping the show’s signature energy intact.

Jimmy Kimmel recently announced that he will be taking a two-month hiatus from Jimmy Kimmel Live!, with several celebrity guest hosts filling in during his absence. Among those set to take over the desk are Rosie O’Donnell, Jelly Roll, and Colman Domingo, alongside Tiffany Haddish, Anthony Anderson, and Ike Barinholtz. During the announcement, Kimmel singled out O’Donnell with a playful jab aimed at the President.

“And as a special treat for our commander in chief, I asked one of his all-time favorites, Rosie O’Donnell, to be here to keep the hits coming,” Kimmel said on the show. 

The guest hosts bring a wide range of experience, from O’Donnell’s television and comedy background to Domingo’s acclaimed acting career and Jelly Roll’s growing popularity across music and entertainment. Their varied backgrounds are expected to give viewers a fresh take on the show while maintaining the humor and conversational style that audiences associate with Jimmy Kimmel Live!.

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As Kimmel prepares to hand over the spotlight temporarily, the host’s influence on late-night television extends beyond comedy. His career has increasingly blended entertainment with commentary on issues that have sparked national conversations.

If most awards are popularity contests, the Peabodys are often viewed as a record of work that leaves a lasting cultural impact. That distinction was highlighted on May 31, 2026, when Jimmy Kimmel was honored at the 86th annual Peabody Awards, recognizing his contributions to television and public discourse. The ceremony featured a tribute from Ben Affleck, who mixed humor with praise while reflecting on Kimmel’s willingness to stand his ground during issues.

“...when they pulled his show off the air, Jimmy refused to back down. What he said to me was it wasn’t for his own benefit, but because he knows justice dies in the dark — I taught him that as Batman,” Affleck said.

Jimmy Kimmel later thanked supporters and emphasized the importance of protecting comedy, journalism, and dissent from censorship. The Peabody honor underscored how Kimmel’s role has evolved beyond that of a traditional late-night host. While known for celebrity interviews and comedy segments, he has also become a prominent voice on issues involving free expression and public accountability.

As he steps away for the summer, viewers will see a diverse group of guest hosts keep the show running, while Jimmy Kimmel’s broader impact on the late-night landscape continues to shape conversations even in his absence. The temporary change also offers an opportunity for new personalities to bring their own energy to one of television’s most established late-night platforms.

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What are your thoughts on Rosie O’Donnell, Jelly Roll, and Colman Domingo joining the guest-host lineup? Let us know in the comments!