The late-night television landscape is shifting dramatically as Stephen Colbert prepares to wrap up his iconic 11-year run on The Late Show. However, the farewell is filled with tension. Fellow host Jimmy Kimmel has openly criticized network executives, expressing deep frustration over how Colbert’s departure was handled.
During a recent emotional broadcast, Kimmel paid a heartfelt tribute to the 62-year-old host, announcing that his own show will not air a new episode this Thursday. This gesture ensures all eyes remain on Colbert’s final broadcast on May 21.
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Kimmel did not hold back his anger regarding the corporate decisions behind the move. “I think you know how I feel about the fact that they are being pushed out,” Kimmel told his audience. “I hope the people who did the pushing feel ashamed of themselves tonight, although I know they probably won’t.”
Reflecting on their relationship, Kimmel shattered the old stereotypes of cutthroat late-night rivalries. He emphasized that the bond between their teams was built on mutual respect rather than competition. “We never felt like we were competing against them. It was nothing like the old days of late night,” Kimmel confessed, adding that he always loved crossing over onto each other’s shows.
While expressing deep disappointment with the authorities responsible, Kimmel concluded on a celebratory note, congratulating Colbert and The Late Show team for their incredible legacy and expressing absolute confidence in Colbert’s future ventures.