Stephen Colbert made a comeback 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 welcome with a standing ovation, and Kimmel humorously likened his return to “a shark going back to its natural habitat.”
During the interview, Kimmel remarked on Colbert’s noticeable contentment and improved well-being away from the relentless news cycle. Colbert expressed relief at no longer having to consume nightly “poison” and highlighted the positive effects of distancing himself from the constant news coverage.
The discussion briefly touched on U.S. President Donald Trump and the circumstances surrounding the cancellation of The Late Show. However, the focus of the interview was more on lighthearted banter and comedic exchanges rather than delving into heavy political topics.
The jovial atmosphere continued as Kimmel teased Colbert about his Emmy win and shared anecdotes from past Emmy celebrations. The conversation then shifted to Colbert’s beard, with him joking about his wife’s dislike for it and the impact it had on their intimacy. Following a promise made earlier, Kimmel proceeded to shave off Colbert’s beard live on air, creating a humorous moment.
Colbert also revealed details about a film project he is working on with his son, delving into the realm of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth with a new movie titled The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past. Despite not announcing any new TV ventures, Colbert joked about his newfound free time and the liberty to explore new opportunities now that he’s no longer tied to nightly show obligations.
The interview concluded with Colbert presenting Kimmel with a Captain America shield prop as a gift, symbolizing a shift from Colbert’s role as a host delivering political satire to that of a guest enjoying the lighter side of late-night TV.