Jimmy Kimmel’s Son Billy Thrives After Third Heart Surgery

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Jimmy Kimmel shared uplifting news about his son, Billy, on February 22, during the Keep Memory Alive‘s Power of Love Gala. Nearly a year after the 7-year-old’s third open-heart surgery, Kimmel expressed gratitude for the support his family received throughout his son’s health struggles.

"Billy is about to turn 8," Kimmel stated proudly, adding, "He's doing great. He's very healthy." Kimmel’s comments came during an exclusive interview where he spoke about the significance of the gala, which supports Alzheimer’s research and resources.

The 57-year-old comedian reflected on the past, noting that the health community had rallied behind his family during their challenging times. Kimmel, who has two older children, Katie and Kevin, from his previous marriage and a daughter named Jane with his wife Molly, has made it a priority to give back.

"It's very special when people say, 'Oh, we're praying for your son,'" Kimmel explained. "People throw those words around lightly, but when you hear them about yourself, they're very meaningful."

Reflecting on the need for support in difficult times, Kimmel added, "It is really helpful to know that you can go to a place where they are on the cutting edge of figuring this stuff out, hopefully curing these terrible brain-related diseases and conditions that people have."

Billy’s heart issues became apparent shortly after his birth in April 2017, necessitating immediate medical intervention. During a May 2017 episode of his talk show, Kimmel recounted, "It was the longest three hours of my life. They didn't do everything. He'll have to have another open-heart surgery in three to six months."

After undergoing his second surgery in December 2017, Billy faced yet another operation in May 2023, where a new valve was installed in his heart. Kimmel has often shared the emotional challenges of his son’s health journey. "Walking around this hospital, meeting parents at their most vulnerable, children in pain, and the miracle workers who do everything in their considerable power to save them is a humbling experience," Kimmel stated last year.

As a father, he acknowledged the impact of societal support, saying, "Thanks to those loving strangers who took time to pray for and send positive energy to our baby." Kimmel’s experience highlights the importance of community in facing health challenges.

For more updates on Kimmel and his family’s journey, viewers can tune into E! News on February 24 at 11 p.m.