Jimmy Kimmel Launches Public Campaign for Stephen Colbert Amidst “Late Show” Cancellation Fears
In a striking display of solidarity, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel has publicly endorsed his CBS colleague Stephen Colbert, featuring his own face and the logo for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on a prominent billboard in West Hollywood. The billboard, situated at a major intersection in the industry-centric neighborhood, carries a simple, impactful message: “I’m voting for Stephen.”
This bold move comes as Colbert’s “The Late Show” faces an uncertain future, with reports indicating its cancellation at the end of its current season. The decision, attributed by CBS parent company Paramount to financial considerations, has drawn sharp criticism from Kimmel and fellow NBC host Jimmy Fallon. Both have expressed their dismay over the potential end of Colbert’s program, especially in light of his frequent critiques of Paramount’s business dealings, including its pursuit of FCC approval for a merger with Skydance.
Kimmel has not shied away from voicing his strong opinions on the matter, directly addressing Paramount executives with a forceful statement: “Fuck you and all your Sheldons CBS.” This public declaration of support for Colbert extends beyond mere social media commentary,with Kimmel investing significantly in a highly visible marketing campaign. While some might view this as a strategic move to avoid negative public perception shoudl Colbert’s show indeed be canceled, the gesture is widely seen as a ample and public act of support for a contemporary in a challenging industry climate.
The billboard’s placement in West Hollywood, a hub for entertainment professionals, underscores the importance of this public endorsement within the industry. The campaign highlights the camaraderie among late-night hosts and their willingness to publicly support one another during times of professional uncertainty.
