We, the undersigned, respectfully urge ABC to appoint Craig Ferguson as the host of Jimmy Kimmel Live! or a new late-night program, recognizing his unmatched ability to captivate a broader and more diverse audience than current late-night hosts. Mr. Ferguson’s tenure on CBS’s The Late Late Show from 2005 to 2014, combined with his 2009 Peabody Award and iconic interviews, demonstrates his unique capacity to unite viewers across generations, cultural backgrounds, and interests, making him the ideal candidate to revitalize ABC’s late-night programming.

Craig Ferguson’s appeal lies in his authentic, inclusive, and versatile hosting style. Unlike the formulaic structure of many late-night shows, which often cater to specific demographics with predictable monologues and celebrity segments, Ferguson’s blend of sharp wit, improvisational brilliance, and meaningful dialogue resonates universally. His February 19, 2007, monologue reflecting on his journey with sobriety connected with viewers on a deeply human level, transcending age and background. His March 4, 2009, interview with Archbishop Desmond Tutu—honored with a Peabody Award for its “thought-provoking and frequently irreverent” approach—showcased his ability to blend humor with profound conversation, captivating audiences from young comedy fans to those seeking substance. Equally remarkable, his October 16, 2013, interview with Robin Williams, hailed by many as one of the greatest comedic interviews of all time, exemplified his unparalleled ability to match a comedic legend’s energy, creating a frenetic, unscripted exchange that delighted viewers of all ages and backgrounds.

Ferguson’s global perspective, shaped by his Scottish heritage and American citizenship, enables him to connect with multicultural audiences in ways that distinguish him from other hosts. His playful yet respectful interactions, such as those with his robot sidekick Geoff Peterson, engaged younger viewers, while his insightful interviews drew in those seeking depth. The Peabody Award for his Tutu interview and the enduring popularity of his Williams interview, still shared widely on platforms like X by fans ranging from Gen Z to Baby Boomers, underscore his ability to appeal to diverse audiences with content that transcends typical late-night fare.

In contrast, contemporary late-night television often relies on repetitive formats that limit audience reach. By appointing Craig Ferguson, ABC can attract a wider viewership—encompassing younger audiences craving spontaneity, older viewers valuing authenticity, and diverse communities drawn to his inclusive humor. His recent stand-up performances, at age 63, demonstrate his continued vitality and relevance, as evidenced by enthusiastic online fan engagement.

We believe Craig Ferguson’s appointment would transform ABC’s late-night slot into a dynamic, inclusive platform that surpasses the appeal of current offerings. His proven track record, validated by the 2009 Peabody Award and iconic moments like the Robin Williams interview, positions him uniquely to elevate the network’s programming. We urge ABC to seize this opportunity to redefine late-night television for a new era.

We invite supporters to sign this petition and advocate for Craig Ferguson’s return as a late-night host. By doing so, we signal to ABC the demand for a host who can unite a wide and varied audience with authenticity, innovation, and award-winning excellence. Sign today to support a more inclusive and engaging future for late-night television.