Jimmy Kimmel Hosts Stephen Colbert | Late Night Reunion Details

Late Night Reunion in Los Angeles

Jimmy Kimmel is bringing Stephen Colbert back to late-night television for a guest appearance next week. The ABC host made the announcement during the close of his Thursday night broadcast on September 10, 2026. Kimmel confirmed that Colbert will join him in the studio on Tuesday, shortly after the Emmy Awards ceremony.

This appearance marks a return for Colbert, who concluded his eleven-year run on CBS with the final episode of 'The Late Show' in May 2026. Kimmel has maintained a vocal friendship with the comic since that cancellation, famously posting a profane critique of the network's decision on social media. Despite past efforts to bring Colbert on board, this will be the first time the two share the screen as host and guest during this transition period.

Refused Hosting Duties and Summer Stand-ins

Kimmel had previously approached his colleague about filling in on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' during his annual summer vacation. Colbert reportedly declined the invitation. In his absence, Kimmel relied on a roster of rotating guest hosts including Rosie O'Donnell, Jelly Roll, Ike Barinholtz, and Tiffany Haddish. These guest hosts managed the program while Kimmel was away, keeping the show active for its audience.

Kimmel has anchored his show for more than 23 years. This longevity has sparked frequent industry chatter regarding the program's long-term schedule. Earlier in the week, rumors suggested the show might cease production at the end of the current contract in May 2027. An official spokesperson for ABC Entertainment addressed these claims directly, stating that any reports regarding the show's future are speculative and currently unverified.

Returning to Brooklyn Roots

Later this month, Kimmel plans to move his production to the Brooklyn Academy of Music. The host often emphasizes his identity as a Brooklyn native, and this move marks a homecoming for the production team. While the network has not confirmed the guest lineup for the Brooklyn week, the shift represents a notable change in pace for the series.

The industry continues to watch these shifts closely as late-night formats adjust to changing viewer habits. With Colbert back on screen and Kimmel finalizing his trip to New York, the sector sees both stability and periodic disruption. Audiences can expect more information on the Brooklyn itinerary as the production dates approach at the end of September.