Mentalist Oz Pearlman cancels on Jimmy Kimmel after WHCD shooting; Jon Lovett replaces him amid Trump's call for Kimmel's firing.
- April 28, 2026
AceShowbiz - Mentalist Oz Pearlman has decided not to appear on Jimmy Kimmel Live! as planned, with Pod Save America’s Jon Lovett stepping in as his replacement for tonight’s show.
This last-minute change follows the cancellation of the 2026 White House Correspondents' Dinner (WHCD), where Oz Pearlman was scheduled to be the featured headliner. The event was called off after a shooting incident occurred at the Washington, DC venue, creating heightened security and safety concerns.
The decision by Oz Pearlman to pull out comes amid a tense political atmosphere, including renewed criticism from President Donald Trump, who publicly demanded that ABC take immediate action and "fire" the late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.
While the WHCD is a high-profile event that draws considerable media attention, the shooting and subsequent cancellation have cast a shadow over the evening’s festivities. Oz Pearlman’s withdrawal from the Jimmy Kimmel Live! lineup reflects the broader impact on scheduled appearances tied to the dinner.
Tonight’s episode will instead feature Jon Lovett, known for his political commentary on Pod Save America, as the substitute guest, ensuring the show continues despite the disruptions surrounding the WHCD.
As of now, there is no further information on whether Oz Pearlman plans to reschedule his appearance or participate in future broadcasts of Jimmy Kimmel Live! The situation remains fluid following the recent events in Washington, DC.