Stephen Colbert celebrated the return of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Tuesday, joking that he is now the ‘only martyr in late-night’ after Disney’s decision to lift Kimmel’s suspension. Colbert’s comments were a callback to his own network, CBS, which he recently criticized for not announcing any major developments, as his late, the return of Jimmy Kimmel’s show marked a significant moment for late-night media, highlighting the delicate balance between free speech and political sensitivity. Colbert’s remarks were a pointed jab at CBS, which has yet to make any official announcements regarding his show, despite the network’s financial decisions being a central factor in his departure in 2026. CBS has maintained that their decision to end Colbert’s tenure is purely financial and not related to the show’s content or performance.
Kimmel’s return came after a brief suspension following his controversial remarks about the alleged assassin of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. The comments sparked outrage among conservatives, who accused Kimmel of insensitively suggesting the suspect was a MAGA member, a claim Kimmel himself made on his show. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) warned that the remarks were ill-timed and insensitive, prompting Disney to suspend Kimmel’s show. However, after consultations, Disney chose to reinstate the show, citing its effort to de-escalate the situation and return to normalcy, acknowledging that some of Kimmel’s comments were sensitive given the national climate.
Colbert’s humor about being the ‘only martyr in late-night’ served as a subtle critique of the broader political landscape and media dynamics. While Kimmel’s return is seen as a victory for free speech, Colbert’s comments also underscore the ongoing tensions in late-night television, where hosts often navigate between political commentary and media responsibility. The financial aspects of CBS and Paramount’s decisions, including the recent $8 billion Skydance merger, add another layer to the discussions around late-night programming and its sustainability.
The reinstatement of Jimmy Kimmel Live! and Colbert’s remarks reflect the complex interplay between entertainment, politics, and media responsibility. As late-night hosts continue to engage in public discourse, the balance between free expression and sensitivity remains a critical issue, particularly in polarized times. The return of Kimmel’s show also signals a potential shift in media strategies as networks and hosts navigate the challenges of staying relevant while addressing the growing demands for accountability and responsible commentary.