The two biggest names in late-night TV are set to collaborate once again. CBS announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will welcome Jimmy Kimmel as a guest on an upcoming episode. The timing couldn’t be better, with Colbert preparing for the end of his show following CBS’s decision to cancel The Late Show, and Kimmel returning to the spotlight after ABC suspended him earlier this month.
Kimmel will sit down with Colbert on Tuesday, September 30. The pairing promises to deliver one of the most anticipated late-night conversations in recent memory. Both hosts have been at the center of headlines going beyond just entertainment. Fans can expect candid reflections on censorship, the state of late-night TV, and the future of political comedy. Given Colbert and Kimmel’s history of speaking their minds, Tuesday night’s episode could be appointment viewing for anyone following the ongoing late-night saga.
The appearance also comes during a busy week for Kimmel. He’ll be broadcasting Jimmy Kimmel Live! from Brooklyn, keeping up his tradition of special New York shows. Colbert is already scheduled to make a guest appearance on Kimmel’s show the same night, which means viewers will get to see a rare late-night crossover in both directions. It highlights the solidarity between Colbert and Kimmel, who have each faced their share of controversies but remain two of the most influential voices on television.
It's a bit unusual for both shows to schedule the other host for the same night, especially since The Late Show and Jimmy Kimmel Live! air at the same time. Depending on who's behind the desk and who's on the couch will likely determine the focus of the conversation.
Adding to the must-see factor, The Late Show will also feature another giant of late-night television earlier in the week. On Monday, September 29, Conan O’Brien is set to appear. O’Brien, who wrapped up his Conan run on TBS in 2021 and has since launched a podcasting empire, remains one of the most beloved figures in comedy. His conversation with Colbert should provide valuable perspective on what it means to end a late-night run, especially as Colbert heads toward his show’s final stretch. O'Brien has also been a vocal supporter of both Colbert and Kimmel in their respective controversies.
For fans, it’s a rare opportunity to see late-night leaders reflect on the rapid changes in their industry. Between Kimmel’s Brooklyn shows and Colbert’s high-profile guests, next week could be another significant moment in late-night history and a chance for another ratings boon.