Jimmy Kimmel Takes a Stand for Stephen Colbert in the Middle of CBS Exit Rumors

Jimmy Kimmel Reacts to CBS Canceling Stephen Colbert: 'Fuck You'

When rumors began swirling about Stephen Colbert’s uncertain future at CBS, many in the late-night world stayed silent. But not Jimmy Kimmel. The Jimmy Kimmel Live! host made it clear he wasn’t going to let his friend stand alone in the storm.

Kimmel has often joked at Colbert’s expense in the way only a fellow host can, but when talk of Colbert being pushed out of The Late Show started gaining traction, his tone shifted. On his show, Kimmel openly praised Colbert’s body of work and reminded audiences of the unique voice he brought to late-night, calling him one of the few who could mix sharp political wit with heartfelt sincerity. He told viewers that losing Colbert would be “a loss for comedy, and for everyone who needs to laugh at the madness of the world.”

The two have shared a warm but competitive relationship over the years. Their bond was most evident during the Hollywood writers’ strike, when late-night hosts including Kimmel, Colbert, Seth Meyers, John Oliver, and Jimmy Fallon launched a joint podcast to support their out-of-work staff. Fans got to see another side of Colbert and Kimmel’s friendship there—one built not only on humor but also solidarity.

And then came Kimmel’s boldest move yet. In Los Angeles, a giant billboard went up featuring Colbert’s face with the words “I’m Voting For Stephen” splashed across it—a stunt that left fans buzzing and proved Kimmel was willing to go further than anyone expected to back his friend.

Jimmy Kimmel Puts Up Emmys Billboard for Stephen Colbert

Behind the cameras, sources say Kimmel has been checking in on Colbert regularly, encouraging him to weather the drama instead of stepping away in frustration. It’s a quiet show of loyalty in an industry where rivals don’t always root for each other.

Whether Colbert’s exit talk fizzles out or becomes reality, Kimmel’s support has reminded fans that late-night TV isn’t just about competition—it’s also about community. And in Colbert’s toughest moment yet, Kimmel has proven himself one of the rare few willing to stand by him.