Stephen Colbert Welcomes Back Jimmy Kimmel, Quips About Being the Sole Canceled Star

Stephen Colbert introduced some humor into recent developments regarding late-night television, jestingly asserting his position as the sole person canceled in the late-night domain following revelations of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' resuming its broadcasts.

During a Monday episode of 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,' the host expressed his satisfaction at commencing the night with uplifting news.

Colbert announced enthusiastically, 'A significant relief for all as we learned earlier today that Disney will revive 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' on ABC this Tuesday evening, marking the conclusion of our lingering late-night uncertainty,' which elicited cheers and applause from the audience.

He added, 'This is fantastic for my close friend Jimmy and his incredible team as they get to continue their work.'

Previously, Disney halted Kimmel's show following critical remarks by Brendan Carr, the Federal Communications Commission chairman, concerning Kimmel's statements about political activist Charlie Kirk's death.

This suspension garnered significant backlash from Hollywood insiders, policymakers, and other late-night television figures, denouncing the perceived infringement on freedom of expression by the Trump administration.

On a Thursday show, Colbert categorized Disney's move as an overt attack on speech freedom.

Disney's Change of Heart

However, Disney eventually backtracked on their decision. In a formal announcement, they cited engaging in 'thought-provoking dialogues with Jimmy' as the reason for Kimmel's program resuming the following Tuesday.

In his ongoing jovial manner, Colbert commented that he was again the sole 'martyr' of late-night, humorously noting CBS's decision to conclude his show in May 2026.

He remarked with a grin, 'I am once more the singular late-night martyr. Although, perhaps CBS has another surprise in store?' drawing laughter from the viewers.

Jon Stewart, another prominent late-night host, also shared his thoughts on the situation during 'The Daily Show,' observing that public disapproval played a crucial role in Kimmel's return. Stewart emphasized the ongoing struggle to protect constitutional freedoms.

Efforts to obtain comments from Colbert's representatives by Business Insider were unsuccessful.