Jimmy Kimmel Moves James Talarico Interview to YouTube Over FCC Threats

Jimmy Kimmel announced that he will interview Democratic Texas Senate candidate James Talarico, but the interview will be posted directly to YouTube instead of airing on *Jimmy Kimmel Live*. The decision follows Kimmel’s warning that the Trump‑era Federal Communications Commission has threatened the show, its network, ABC, and local affiliates over “simple, traditional editorial decisions” such as guest bookings.

Kimmel said the move was made “out of consideration for our local stations, especially our ABC affiliates in Texas.” By shifting the interview online, the host aims to avoid potential retaliation from the FCC that could jeopardize the broadcast rights of the show and its affiliates. The interview will still be available to viewers, but it will not appear on the network’s television schedule.

The change underscores the growing tension between broadcast networks and the FCC over editorial content. While the interview will reach audiences through YouTube, it will not be subject to the same regulatory scrutiny that a televised episode might face.