Jimmy Kimmel Says Those Who ‘Pushed Out’ Stephen Colbert Should Be ‘Ashamed’ as He Goes Dark ‘Out of Respect’ for “Late Show”

The television landscape is set for a significant shift as ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’ prepares to air its final episode on 21 May. For many fans and peers alike, it marks the end of an era in late-night television. Host Stephen Colbert will bid farewell to his audience in what is expected to be a poignant send-off.

In a heartwarming gesture, Jimmy Kimmel, host of ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’, announced that his show would not air a new episode on the same night as Colbert’s farewell, opting instead to broadcast a repeat. Kimmel expressed his solidarity with Colbert and his team, contributing to an atmosphere of camaraderie among late-night hosts amid competitive pressures.

During his monologue on 20 May, Kimmel reflected on the situation surrounding Colbert’s cancellation. He characterised the forces behind the show’s exit as “a–holes,” seemingly pointing a finger at political pressures tied to the show’s commentary on former President Donald Trump. Kimmel’s comments alluded to the fact that Colbert’s critiques of Trump and the corporate machinations behind CBS were likely key factors leading to the show’s cancellation.

“I hope the people who did the pushing feel ashamed of themselves tonight,” Kimmel remarked, acknowledging the controversial nature of the decision. While he emphasised his disapproval of the circumstances, Kimmel took the opportunity to commend Colbert for his impactful work over the years.

The cancellation of ‘The Late Show’ — announced in July 2025 — was described by CBS as a “purely financial decision,” set against a backdrop of challenging conditions in the late-night segment. This announcement followed Colbert’s outspoken criticism of the network’s parent company, Paramount, related to a costly settlement with Trump. The fallout from this incident coincided with a corporate merger that raised many eyebrows in the industry.

Kimmel extended his admiration for Colbert and the entire crew, stressing their longstanding camaraderie rather than rivalry in the late-night arena. “It has been a pleasure to work alongside you,” Kimmel said, while encouraging viewers to witness Colbert’s final moments on air and celebrate the legacy of ‘The Late Show’.

Of the final broadcast, Colbert hinted at what fans might expect, revealing his desire for the show to leave a lasting impression. He expressed a hope that his audience felt uplifted after tuning in, remarking, “I hope they laughed. I hope they felt better at the end of the day.”

In an industry often fraught with competition, the outpouring of support from other late-night hosts highlights a collective respect for the contributions of Colbert to late-night television. Kimmel’s decision to skip a new episode was echoed by ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’, which also chose to air a rerun out of respect for Colbert.

As ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’ prepares to sign off for the final time at 11:35 p.m. ET, viewers are expected to reflect on the impact and achievements of the show. Colbert’s wit and ability to connect with his audience made him a beloved figure in homes across the country.

As fans prepare to experience this bittersweet moment, it is clear that Colbert’s contributions will leave a lasting legacy in the late-night format. His departure not only signifies the end of a show but also the end of a chapter in a changing television landscape.

The final episode promises to close one door while hinting at new beginnings for Colbert, who has made it clear that his talent and presence will continue in other venues. The celebratory tone expected in the final broadcast will honour the unforgettable journey Colbert and his team have shared with millions of fans over the years.