A Generous Offer Between Late-Night Rivals
In a recent conversation with Variety, Jimmy Kimmel, 58, shared that he reached out to longtime late-night peer Stephen Colbert with an open invitation to take over the hosting duties on Jimmy Kimmel Live! during his summer hiatus.
Kimmel noted that while the suggestion might have seemed premature to some, his offer stands regardless of the timing. «I told him, ‘Anytime you want to host, it doesn’t matter if it’s the summer, I’ll gladly step aside,’» Kimmel stated. Despite the warm gesture, 62-year-old Colbert ultimately chose to decline the opportunity.
Reflecting on Colbert's Departure from CBS
The offer followed the conclusion of Colbert’s 11-year run as the host of The Late Show. The series wrapped up in May amid swirling questions regarding whether the program's end was connected to a $16 million legal settlement between Donald Trump and CBS.
During his final broadcast, Colbert delivered an emotional farewell to his staff and viewers. «We have done over 1,800 of these shows... This show, I want you to know, has been a joy for us to do for you,» he reflected. He further elaborated on the camaraderie of his production team, describing the program as a «joy machine» that remained sustainable because of the genuine bonds shared by those working behind the scenes.
A Surprise Return to Public Access
Colbert did not stay away from the camera for long. Just one night after his final CBS taping, he made a surprise appearance on a public access program in Monroe, Michigan—the same local station where he had filmed content back in 2015.
Addressing the local audience, he remarked on his recent career transition with his signature wit: «Since I was last here in Monroe, Michigan, I spent 11 years as the primary host of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert on CBS, which came to an end last night. Viewers outside the greater Monroe area are able to view Monroe Community Media thanks to something known as streaming, which I promised not to learn about while I was on CBS.»
Kimmel’s Summer Send-off
Before beginning his own break, Kimmel took a lighthearted jab at the political climate. He jokingly thanked the President while introducing guest host Rosie O’Donnell, quipping, «All I ask in return, Mr. President, is that you don’t do anything stupid while I’m gone.» Jimmy Kimmel Live! continues to air on ABC weeknights at 11:35 p.m. ET.