Bruce Springsteen and Jeremy Allen White are set to share the late-night spotlight on Thursday, October 2, 2025, when they appear together on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" The episode, which will be taped at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, marks a significant meeting between the legendary musician and the rising star who will soon portray him on the big screen. For fans of both Springsteen and White, as well as late-night television, this promises to be an eventful night packed with music, conversation, and a bit of Hollywood magic.
According to Asbury Park Press and NJ.com, the highly anticipated episode will also feature performances by rock band Living Colour and singer Ivan Neville, adding to the star-studded lineup. The excitement around Springsteen’s upcoming biopic, "Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere," is palpable. Jeremy Allen White, acclaimed for his role in TV’s "The Bear," takes on the challenge of playing "The Boss" himself. The film is slated to premiere in theaters on Friday, October 24, 2025, and has already generated buzz for its authentic New Jersey roots—much of it was shot in Freehold, Asbury Park, and other locations across the Garden State.
Springsteen, now 76, has long been celebrated as an icon of American rock and a voice for working-class values. Jeremy Allen White, 33, is stepping into some big shoes, and their joint appearance on Kimmel’s show is expected to offer insight into the making of the film, their collaboration, and perhaps a few behind-the-scenes stories. This isn’t the first time Springsteen has graced the "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" stage; he last appeared in 2019, captivating both the studio audience and viewers at home.
But this upcoming episode is notable for more than just its guests. The show’s temporary relocation to the Brooklyn Academy of Music is itself a special occasion. While "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" typically broadcasts from the El Capitan Entertainment Centre in Los Angeles, Kimmel has made Brooklyn his home base for a handful of episodes in the past. This week-long run in Brooklyn will include appearances by other major stars: Ryan Reynolds, Josh Johnson, and Public Enemy on Monday, September 29; Stephen Colbert, Kumail Nanjiani, and Reneé Rapp on Tuesday, September 30; Emily Blunt, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Geese, and Big Daddy Kane on Wednesday, October 1; and Tom Hanks and Spike Lee closing out the week on Friday, October 3.
The recent history of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" has been marked by controversy and resilience. The show was suspended by ABC after Kimmel commented on the murder of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk during the September 15 episode. The backlash was swift and intense, prompting ABC to pull the plug temporarily. However, the show returned to the airwaves on September 23. During his return, Kimmel addressed the controversy directly, stating, "This show is not important. What is important is that we get to live in a country that allows us to have a show like this." He added, "You understand that it was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man. I don’t think there’s anything funny about it." (NJ.com)
The incident highlighted the delicate balance late-night hosts must strike between commentary and sensitivity, especially in a polarized media landscape. The suspension and subsequent return of the show underscored both the power and the pitfalls of live television, as well as the enduring importance of free expression in American culture. For Kimmel, the episode was a reminder of the responsibility that comes with a national platform, and for ABC, it was a test of how to navigate controversy in real time.
Meanwhile, the connection between Springsteen and political discourse is nothing new. According to Asbury Park Press, Springsteen drew the ire of conservatives during his most recent tour when he openly criticized then-President Donald Trump. During one of his performances, Springsteen declared, "A majority of our elected representatives have failed to protect the American people from the abuses of an unfit president and a rogue government. They have no concern or idea for what it means to be deeply American." His willingness to speak out has made him a polarizing figure in some circles, but it has also cemented his status as an artist unafraid to use his voice for causes he believes in.
It’s worth noting that both 20th Century Studios, the studio behind "Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere," and ABC, the network airing "Jimmy Kimmel Live!," are owned by Disney. This corporate connection has facilitated a seamless promotional campaign for the biopic, with the late-night appearance serving as a high-profile kickoff to the film’s release. For Disney, it’s a rare opportunity to showcase synergy between its entertainment properties, leveraging star power and anticipation to drive interest on multiple platforms.
The upcoming biopic itself is shaping up to be a significant cultural event. With White stepping into the role of Springsteen, audiences will get a dramatized glimpse into the life and times of one of America’s most enduring musicians. The choice to film in New Jersey, Springsteen’s home state, lends authenticity and a sense of place that fans will surely appreciate. The movie’s title, "Deliver Me from Nowhere," hints at the themes of longing, escape, and resilience that have long been hallmarks of Springsteen’s songwriting.
For Jeremy Allen White, the role is both a professional challenge and a personal honor. Known for his nuanced performances and ability to convey complex emotions, White has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after young actors. His transformation into Springsteen is likely to be a focal point of the Kimmel interview, as viewers tune in to see how he approached the character and what it was like to work alongside the real-life inspiration for his role.
As the date approaches, excitement continues to build—not just among fans of Springsteen and White, but also among those who follow late-night television and American pop culture more broadly. The convergence of music, film, and timely conversation promises an episode that will be remembered long after the cameras stop rolling.
With the spotlight firmly on Brooklyn for one week in late September and early October, "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" is poised to deliver a string of memorable moments. But it’s Thursday’s episode, with its blend of nostalgia, artistry, and real-world relevance, that stands out as a must-watch. Whether you’re a lifelong Springsteen devotee, a fan of White’s breakout roles, or simply someone who loves a good story, this is one night of television that’s sure to strike a chord.
Sometimes, the most anticipated moments in entertainment are those where art, life, and a little bit of controversy collide. This upcoming episode of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" promises just that—a meeting of legends, a look behind the curtain, and perhaps a spark of inspiration for all who tune in.