Stephen Colbert jokes he is “only martyr in late night” after Jimmy Kimmel returns to air

Stephen Colbert welcomed Jimmy Kimmel back to late night television following Disney’s decision to reinstate Jimmy Kimmel Live! less than a week after suspending the show.

Opening Monday’s episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the host said he was pleased to begin with “good news.”

Colbert told his audience: “Just a few hours before we taped this broadcast, we got word that our long national late-night nightmare is over, because Disney announced that Jimmy Kimmel Live! will return to air on ABC tomorrow, Tuesday night.” The announcement drew loud cheers and applause.

Colbert praised the decision, saying it was “wonderful news for my dear friend Jimmy and his amazing staff that he can continue his show.”

Disney suspended Kimmel’s programme after Federal Communications Commission chairman Brendan Carr criticised comments Kimmel made about the killing of political activist Charlie Kirk.

The move prompted backlash from Hollywood, politicians, and fellow talk show hosts, who argued it undermined free speech.

On Thursday, Colbert described the suspension as “a blatant assault on the freedom of speech.” Disney later reversed the decision, explaining it had held “thoughtful conversations with Jimmy” before confirming the show would resume on Tuesday.

Colbert also joked about his own situation, reminding viewers that CBS plans to end The Late Show in May 2026. “Once more, I am the only martyr in late night. Unless, wait, CBS, you want to announce anything?” he said, drawing laughter from the audience.

Jon Stewart also commented on the reversal during The Daily Show, suggesting public backlash was instrumental in the decision and stating that Americans must continue to “fight like hell for this constitutional republic.”