Jimmy Kimmel to receive President's Award, a rare honor from ICG Publicists Guild

The International Cinematographers Guild (ICG) has announced that Jimmy Kimmel will be honored with the 2026 Presidents Award, a rare distinction reserved for exceptional circumstances. The accolade will be presented during the 63rd annual ICG Publicists Awards luncheon on March 13 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, just days before the 98th Academy Awards.

ICG praised Kimmel for his resilience, integrity, and steadfast commitment to his principles during challenging times. We are delighted to recognize Jimmy Kimmel, whose return to the airwaves was significant for his audience and meaningful for our guild, said ICG National President John Lindley. He supported his staff and crew throughout his suspension, and this award honors his dedication to both his work and his team.

Kimmel, the host of Jimmy Kimmel Live! since 2003, faced a high-profile suspension in September after controversial comments regarding the death of right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk. The network temporarily pulled his show, and major station groups Nexstar and Sinclair also removed it from their affiliates. The program returned to ABC after several days, though some stations delayed its broadcast further.

Throughout his career, Kimmel has hosted the Oscars four times and the Emmys three times, making him the longest-serving current late-night host on television. He joins a distinguished group of previous ICG Presidents Award honorees, including former AMPAS President Cheryl Boone Isaacs and long-time Entertainment Tonight executive producer Linda Bell Blue.

The ICG Publicists Awards celebrate the achievements of Local 600 publicists, unit still photographers, outstanding publicity campaigns in television and film, and the years top entertainment journalists. Television nominations will be announced on December 2, with motion picture nominations following on January 14.

Author: Ethan Caldwell