BREAKING: Stephen Colbert has welcomed Jimmy Kimmel back to the late-night television scene just hours after Disney announced the return of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” to ABC. This comes only days after Kimmel’s show was abruptly pulled from the air, sparking widespread debate over free speech.
In his opening monologue on Thursday, Colbert joked about the situation, declaring himself the “only martyr in late night” as his own show faces cancellation in May 2026. Colbert expressed relief at the news, stating, “Just a few hours before we taped this broadcast, we got word that our long national late-night nightmare is over!” His comments were met with cheers from the audience.
The controversy began when Disney suspended Kimmel’s show following remarks made by Kimmel about conservative political activist Charlie Kirk, which drew criticism from Brendan Carr, the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The move was heavily criticized by Hollywood figures and politicians alike, who viewed it as a direct attack on free speech.
Colbert stated that the suspension was a “blatant assault on the freedom of speech,” highlighting the intense reaction from the public and media. Following significant backlash, Disney reversed its decision, announcing Kimmel’s show would return on the evening of Tuesday, October 24.
In a humorous twist, Colbert quipped, “Once more, I am the only martyr in late night,” referencing the fate of his own show. The laughter from the crowd underscored the camaraderie among late-night hosts amid the upheaval.
Another late-night host, Jon Stewart, also weighed in on the reversal during a Monday episode of “The Daily Show.” He credited public outcry for Kimmel’s return, urging Americans to continue fighting for their rights in the face of censorship.
As this story develops, viewers are reminded of the ongoing tensions surrounding free speech in media. The late-night landscape continues to evolve, with Colbert and Kimmel at the forefront of a crucial cultural conversation.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent situation, as the late-night community reacts to the latest developments.
