Jimmy Kimmel Rallies Behind Stephen Colbert — Unveils Bold Billboard Statement After ‘Late Show’ Cancellation

Introduction

The cancellation of *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert* after ten seasons has sent ripples through the entertainment industry, prompting an outpouring of support from fellow late-night hosts and Emmy voters. In a striking display of solidarity, Jimmy Kimmel has taken his support public—literally—by unveiling a bold billboard in Los Angeles that encourages Emmy voters to cast their ballots for Colbert.

Kimmel’s Billboard: A Public Stand

The billboard, first reported by Variety, features a prominent headshot of Jimmy Kimmel alongside an announcement of his own Emmy nomination for Outstanding Talk Series. Below, in unmistakable white text, the message reads: “I’m voting Stephen.” The timing and placement of the billboard make it clear that Kimmel is not just endorsing Colbert for the Emmy, but also making a statement against the circumstances surrounding Colbert’s departure.

The Context: Colbert’s Sudden Cancellation

Paramount’s decision to cancel *The Late Show* was officially described as a financial move, with CBS stating: “This is purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night. It is not related in any way to the show’s performance, content or other matters happening at Paramount.” Colbert, who took over the show in 2015 following David Letterman’s retirement, has been a staple of late-night television, known for his sharp wit and incisive commentary.

The cancellation, however, came mere days after Colbert openly criticized Paramount’s parent company for a sizable settlement with former President Donald Trump, raising questions about the true motivations behind the decision.

Late-Night Community Responds

Kimmel was quick to react, sharing a clip from Colbert’s July 17 broadcast and expressing his affection and admiration: “Love you Stephen,” he wrote. He didn’t mince words about the network either, adding, “F— you and all your Sheldons CBS.”

Jon Stewart, host of *The Daily Show*, also weighed in on July 22, offering a passionate defense of Colbert and a sharp critique of the current climate in American institutions:
“If you’re trying to figure out why Stephen’s show is ending, I don’t think the answer can be found in some smoking gun email or phone call from Trump to CBS executives or in CBS’ QuickBooks spreadsheets on the financial health of late night.
I think the answer is in the fear and pre-compliance that is gripping all of America’s institutions at this very moment, institutions that have chosen not to fight the vengeful and vindictive actions of our pubic hair doodling Commander in Chief. This is not the moment to give in.”

Seth Meyers joined the chorus of support, posting on Instagram Stories:
“For as great a comedian and host he is, Stephen Colbert is an even better person. I’m going to miss having him on TV every night but I’m excited he can no longer use the excuse that he’s ‘too busy to hang out’ with me.”

The Bigger Picture: Solidarity and Resistance

The public support for Colbert from his peers highlights the deep camaraderie within the late-night community, but also underscores the anxiety and frustration over the pressures facing media institutions today. Kimmel’s billboard is more than an Emmy endorsement—it’s a rallying cry against what many see as the chilling effect of corporate and political influence on creative expression.

Conclusion

As Emmy voters consider their choices, Jimmy Kimmel’s billboard stands as a potent symbol of resistance and solidarity. The late-night community’s response to Colbert’s cancellation has made it clear: the fight for creative freedom and integrity in media is far from over, and Stephen Colbert’s legacy will be fiercely defended by those who know him best.