What Channel is Jimmy Kimmel on DirecTV ?

For over two decades, Jimmy Kimmel Live! has been a cornerstone of American late-night television. Hosted by the witty and relatable Jimmy Kimmel, the show has become a nightly ritual for millions, offering a perfect blend of celebrity interviews, hilarious comedy sketches, and Kimmel's signature monologue that often playfully roasts the day's headlines. From the iconic "Mean Tweets" segment to heartfelt and impactful stories, the show consistently delivers top-tier entertainment.

It's no surprise that viewers often find themselves asking, "What channel is Jimmy Kimmel on DirecTV?" Whether you're a new DirecTV subscriber, a longtime fan who can't remember the channel number, or you're just settling into a new area, finding your favorite show should be effortless. This guide is designed to be your one-stop resource, providing not just the channel number but a full breakdown of how to watch, record, and enjoy Jimmy Kimmel Live! to its fullest on the DirecTV platform. We'll cover everything from basic channel lookup to advanced features and alternative viewing methods.

About Jimmy Kimmel Live: A Late-Night Institution

Jimmy Kimmel Live! (often stylized as JKL) premiered on January 26, 2003, on ABC. What started as a late-night competitor to established giants like David Letterman and Jay Leno has grown into a cultural phenomenon in its own right. The show is filmed in Hollywood, California, and is known for its accessible humor and Kimmel's everyman charm.

A History of Highlights and Milestones

The show has celebrated numerous milestones, including its move to the coveted 11:35 PM ET/PT time slot in 2013, directly competing with The Tonight Show and The Late Show. Over the years, JKL has been the site of memorable moments, from viral video segments to politically charged monologues that have sparked national conversation. Its annual post-Oscar specials, where Kimmel dissects the Academy Awards ceremony, have become must-watch television events.

The Recipe for Entertainment: Guests, Comedy, and More

The success of Jimmy Kimmel Live! Hinges on its consistent formula:

• Celebrity Interviews: A-list actors, musicians, and cultural icons grace the couch for conversations that are often more candid and humorous than those found on daytime talk shows.

• Signature Comedy Sketches: Segments like "Mean Tweets," where celebrities read insulting tweets about themselves, and "This Week in Unnecessary Censorship" have become internet sensations.

• Musical Performances: The show features performances by today's hottest artists and legendary bands, providing a platform for a wide range of musical talent.

DirecTV Overview: A Premier Satellite TV Provider

Before we dive into the specific channel, let's briefly look at the platform itself. DirecTV is one of the leading satellite television providers in the United States, known for its extensive channel lineup, high-definition picture quality, and reliable service. It offers a wide range of packages, from basic entertainment to comprehensive plans with hundreds of channels, including premium movie networks and regional sports networks.

DirecTV's satellite service is available across the entire continental United States, making it a popular choice for entertainment seekers in both urban and rural areas where cable options might be limited. Its advanced Genie HD DVR system allows for recording multiple shows at once and storing hundreds of hours of content, a key feature for fans of late-night talk shows who may not want to stay up until 11:35 PM.

What Channel is Jimmy Kimmel on DirecTV? The Direct Answer

The straightforward answer is that Jimmy Kimmel Live! Airs on the ABC network. Therefore, to find JKL on DirecTV, you need to tune to your local ABC affiliate channel.

For the vast majority of DirecTV subscribers nationwide, the primary ABC channel on DirecTV is channel 5 or channel 105 for the high-definition (HD) feed.

However, it is crucially important to note that local channel numbers can vary based on your specific geographic location and market. While channel 5/105 is the standard for many major cities like New York and Los Angeles, your local ABC affiliate might be on a slightly different number.

Regional Breakdown: Checking Your Local ABC Affiliate

DirecTV assigns local channels based on your Designated Market Area (DMA). Here’s a quick look at how the DirecTV ABC channel number can differ in a few key markets:

• New York, NY: Channel 7 (SD) or Channel 707 (HD)

• Los Angeles, CA: Channel 5 (SD) or Channel 105 (HD)

• Chicago, IL: Channel 7 (SD) or Channel 107 (HD)

• Philadelphia, PA: Channel 6 (SD) or Channel 106 (HD)

• Dallas, TX: Channel 8 (SD) or Channel 108 (HD)

• Atlanta, GA: Channel 2 (SD) or Channel 102 (HD)

As you can see, the variation is significant. This is why a generic search might not always yield the correct result for your location. The most reliable method is always to check DirecTV's on-screen guide or use their online channel lookup tool.

How to Watch Jimmy Kimmel Live! on DirecTV: A Step-by-Step Guide

Simply knowing the channel number is one thing; knowing how to efficiently access the show is another. Here’s your detailed guide to watching Jimmy Kimmel Live! on DirecTV.

Step 1: Use the DirecTV On-Screen Guide

The easiest way to find the correct channel is by using your DirecTV remote.

1. Press the "GUIDE" button on your remote.

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll through the channels alphabetically. You can look for "ABC" or your local affiliate's call letters (e.g., WABC, KABC).

3. Alternatively, you can search by time and show name. Press "LIST" and search for "Jimmy Kimmel Live!". The guide will show you the channel number and air time.

Step 2: Recording Episodes with DirecTV DVR

Can't stay up for the live broadcast? No problem. The DirecTV Genie DVR is perfect for this.

1. Find Jimmy Kimmel Live! in the guide.

2. Select the show and press the "Record" button on your remote.

3. You’ll be given options: "Record Once," "Record Series," or "Record Options." Selecting "Record Series" will ensure you never miss an episode. You can then watch it at your convenience from your "Playlist."

Step 3: On-Demand Viewing Options

Missed an episode you didn't record? DirecTV often has on-demand content.

1. Press the "Menu" button on your remote and navigate to "On Demand."

2. Select "TV Shows" and browse or search for Jimmy Kimmel Live!.

3. Here, you can often find recent episodes available to watch for free (though some may require logging in with your DirecTV account).

Alternative Ways to Watch Jimmy Kimmel Live!

While DirecTV is a fantastic option, it's not the only way to enjoy the show. If you're looking for more flexibility or don't have a traditional satellite subscription, here are some popular alternatives.

1. ABC Official App and Website

You can watch Jimmy Kimmel Live! Live or on-demand through the ABC app (on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices) or the ABC website (ABC.com). However, to access the live stream, you will need to authenticate your subscription by logging in with your DirecTV TV provider credentials. This is a great way to watch on the go.

2. Streaming Services with Live TV

"Skinny bundle" streaming services that include live local channels are an excellent cable-free alternative.

• Hulu + Live TV: Includes ABC in most markets and offers a cloud DVR to record JKL.

• YouTube TV: Also carries local ABC affiliates and provides an unlimited cloud DVR.

• Sling TV: Note that Sling only offers ABC in a few select markets (like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago) through its Sling Blue package. It's not as widely available as on Hulu or YouTube TV.

• fuboTV: A sports-focused streamer that also includes ABC in many areas.

3. DirecTV Stream

This is DirecTV's own streaming service, separate from its satellite offering. DirecTV Stream packages include local channels like ABC. If you're a DirecTV Stream subscriber, you can find your local ABC channel in the guide, and the service also includes a cloud DVR. The channel number will be the same as it is for your location within the app's interface.

Why Watch Jimmy Kimmel on DirecTV? The Benefits Unveiled

You have choices, so why choose DirecTV? Here’s what makes it a premium option for Jimmy Kimmel fans.

• Superior Picture and Sound Quality: DirecTV satellite service is renowned for its consistent, high-quality HD broadcast. You'll enjoy Jimmy Kimmel Live! in crisp, clear high definition (and in some cases, even 4K if available and you have the right equipment), which is a step above some compressed streaming signals.

• Integrated Live and DVR Experience: The DirecTV Genie HD DVR system is seamlessly integrated. Watching live, pausing, rewinding, and recording the entire series is incredibly straightforward and reliable.

• No Buffering, No Data Caps: Unlike streaming, which can be susceptible to internet congestion and data limits from your ISP, DirecTV satellite provides a consistent signal unaffected by your home network performance.

Comparison: DirecTV vs. Other Cable and Streaming Providers

Let's briefly compare the experience of watching JKL across different platforms.

FeatureDirecTV (Satellite)YouTube TV / Hulu Live TVStandard Cable (e.g., Xfinity)Channel ReliabilityExcellent (weather-dependent)Excellent (internet-dependent)ExcellentPicture QualityConsistently High HDHigh HD (can vary with the internet)High HDDVR FunctionalityIntegrated Genie DVR (hardware)Cloud DVR (can have limits)Provider-specific DVROn-Demand AccessYes (via menu)Yes (integrated)YesViewing FlexibilityMainly on TVAny device with an appMainly on TV, some apps

The Verdict: DirecTV offers a robust, traditional TV experience with top-tier reliability and quality. Streaming services offer more flexibility for multi-device viewing, while standard cable is often comparable to satellite.

Tips for Jimmy Kimmel Viewers on DirecTV

• Always Check Local Listings: The most accurate way to find the Jimmy Kimmel Live! DirecTV channel number can be found by using the on-screen guide or visiting the DirecTV official website and using their local channel lookup tool by entering your zip code.

• Troubleshooting a Missing Channel: If you cannot find ABC or the show:

  1. Rescan for Channels: Sometimes, a channel rescan is needed. Go to Menu > Settings & Help > Settings > Display > Preferences > Guide > Reset Guide.

  2. Check Your Package: Ensure your DirecTV package includes local channels. Most do, but some basic plans may not.

  3. Check for Outages: Visit the DirecTV service status page to see if there's a known local outage.

• Utilize Customer Support: If all else fails, DirecTV customer support is available 24/7. They can confirm your local ABC channel number and troubleshoot any reception issues.

Conclusion: Tune In and Laugh Out Loud

So, to answer the burning question one last time: Jimmy Kimmel Live! is on your local ABC channel on DirecTV. While the common number is channel 5 or 105 in HD, the most reliable method is to check your local guide for the precise number in your area.

With this comprehensive guide, you're now equipped not only to find the Jimmy Kimmel show time on DirecTV but also to master your viewing experience. Whether you watch it live, record it with your DVR, or catch up on-demand, you can now enjoy all the comedy, celebrity interviews, and signature segments that have made Jimmy Kimmel a late-night legend. So, grab your remote, find channel ABC, and get ready for a great show!

FAQ Section (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: What channel is Jimmy Kimmel Live! on DirecTV?
A: Jimmy Kimmel Live! Airs on ABC. The DirecTV channel for ABC is typically channel 5 (SD) or 105 (HD), but this can vary by location. Please check your local DirecTV guide for the exact channel number in your city.

Q2: What time does Jimmy Kimmel Live! Air on DirecTV?
A: Jimmy Kimmel Live! Airs weeknights at 11:35 PM Eastern Time / Pacific Time. In the Central Time Zone, it typically airs at 10:35 PM CT. Always verify the exact time in your local listings.

Q3: Is Jimmy Kimmel Live! Available in HD on DirecTV?
A: Yes, absolutely. If you have an HD television and a DirecTV HD receiver, you can watch Jimmy Kimmel Live! in high definition on your local ABC HD channel, which is usually channel 105 or a similar variant like 107 or 108, depending on your market.

Q4: Can I record Jimmy Kimmel Live! on DirecTV DVR?
A: Yes. Using your DirecTV Genie HD DVR, you can easily set up a series recording for Jimmy Kimmel Live! so every episode is automatically recorded and saved to your playlist for later viewing.

Q5: How can I find the ABC channel on DirecTV?
A: The easiest way is to press the "GUIDE" button on your DirecTV remote and scroll through the list to find "ABC." You can also use the voice search feature on your remote (if available) by saying "ABC channel."

Q6: Is Jimmy Kimmel Live!Available on DirecTV Stream?
A: Yes. DirecTV Stream, the company's streaming service, includes local ABC channels in its packages. You can watch Jimmy Kimmel Live! Live or use the cloud DVR feature to record it.

Q7: Can I watch Jimmy Kimmel Live! Without cable or satellite?
A: Yes. You can watch via streaming services that carry ABC, such as Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, or through the ABC app/website by logging in with a participating TV provider. An over-the-air antenna is another free option to get ABC in HD.

Q8: Does DirecTV offer ABC in all states?
A: DirecTV provides local ABC affiliates in virtually all markets across the United States. However, in extremely remote locations, there may be exceptions. You can verify ABC availability for any address on the DirecTV website.

Q9: How do I fix it if Jimmy Kimmel Live! is not showing on DirecTV?
A: First, ensure your DirecTV package includes local channels. Then, try resetting your receiver by pressing the red button on the front or unplugging it for 15 seconds. If the issue persists, contact DirecTV customer support for assistance.

Q10: Is Jimmy Kimmel Live! Available on-demand with DirecTV?
A: Yes, recent episodes of Jimmy Kimmel Live! are often available on demand. Go to Menu > On Demand > TV Shows and search for the show. You may need to log in with your DirecTV account to access some content.