Renowned television host Stephen Colbert made a triumphant return to late-night TV as a guest on Jimmy Kimmel Live! following his recent Emmy win. This appearance marked his first since CBS axed his show earlier this year. Colbert received a warm reception from the audience, with Kimmel humorously likening his return to that of a shark back in familiar waters.
During the interview, Kimmel pointed out Colbert’s apparent improvement in spirit and well-being outside the constant news cycle. Colbert expressed relief at no longer having to consume the nightly “cup of poison” associated with covering the news, highlighting the positive impact of stepping away from that environment.
While Kimmel briefly mentioned President Donald Trump and the circumstances surrounding The Late Show’s cancellation, the interview mainly focused on light-hearted banter rather than deep political commentary. Viewers got to see a relaxed and jovial Colbert, who was more inclined towards comedy than the political satire that defined much of his previous work.
The conversation shifted to personal topics, including Colbert’s beard, which his wife dislikes due to its prickliness affecting their kisses. In a light-hearted moment, Kimmel offered to shave off Colbert’s beard on air after his Emmy win, which Colbert agreed to. The interview also touched on Colbert’s new project, a Lord of the Rings movie he is co-writing with his son and Philippa Boyens.
Colbert’s newfound free time post-show cancellation was humorously highlighted, with no new TV projects announced. The interview concluded with Colbert gifting Kimmel a Captain America shield prop, symbolizing a passing of the late-night torch as Colbert transitions from host to guest.
CBS had announced the cancellation of The Late Show in May 2026, citing financial reasons, although skepticism arose due to the timing shortly after Colbert criticized the network’s parent company for settling a lawsuit with President Trump. This move raised suspicions of a potential political motive behind the show’s cancellation.