After winning an Emmy, former “Late Show” host Stephen Colbert made his first late-night television appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” since CBS ended his show earlier this year. Colbert received a warm welcome from the audience, with Kimmel humorously comparing his return to a shark going back to familiar waters.
During the interview, Kimmel pointed out that Colbert appeared happier and healthier without the daily news cycle pressures. Colbert expressed relief at no longer having to tackle the news every night, likening it to avoiding a toxic routine.
While Trump and the cancellation of “The Late Show” were briefly mentioned, the conversation mostly steered clear of politics, allowing viewers to see a more relaxed and comedic side of Colbert. The evening was filled with lighthearted banter and jokes, showcasing Colbert’s jovial spirit after his recent Emmy win.
The interview took a personal turn as Colbert discussed his beard, revealing that his wife disliked it and how it affected their kisses. In a playful moment, Kimmel offered to shave Colbert’s beard on air, which Colbert agreed to, leading to a humorous shaving session on the show.
Colbert also shared details about a film project he’s working on with his son, Peter McGee, involving the beloved world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Despite not announcing a new TV project, Colbert joked about having more free time now that he’s not tied to a nightly show.
The interview concluded with Colbert gifting Kimmel a prop Captain America shield, symbolizing a passing of the late-night torch as Colbert transitions from host to guest. Colbert seemed content to step back from the nightly political comedy grind and embrace new opportunities, including travel and creative projects.
The decision to cancel “The Late Show” by CBS earlier this year raised eyebrows, especially given the timing following Colbert’s criticism of the parent company. The move sparked speculation about potential political motivations behind the cancellation, adding a layer of intrigue to the show’s end.