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Jimmy Kimmel Closes Disney Upfront with Satire, ESPN Streaming Launch, and Ad Appeal

At Disney's 2025 upfront, Kimmel announced the rebranding of ESPN as a live-streaming service and emphasized Disney's streaming growth while urging advertisers to support journalism.

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Overview

  • Jimmy Kimmel concluded Disney's 2025 upfront at the Javits Center with a live monologue blending humor and strategic announcements.
  • Kimmel revealed that Disney's new live-content streaming service will be branded as ESPN, marking a major shift in their streaming strategy.
  • Disney announced its ad-supported platforms now reach 164 million monthly active users, more than twice that of Netflix.
  • Kimmel criticized rival networks, including NBCUniversal's Versant branding and ABC's limited programming slate, while roasting Disney's own leadership and decisions.
  • He closed with a direct appeal to advertisers, urging them to support journalistic programming like CBS's 60 Minutes.