Late-Night Legends Exchange Gifts, Shots in Emotional Cross-Show Visits
NEW YORK – In a series of heartfelt and playfully rebellious appearances on each other’s shows this week, late-night hosts Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert marked what could be a turning point for both programs as Colbert prepares to conclude his run on The Late Show. The exchanges, filled with affectionate ribbing, unexpected gifts, and shared tequila shots, offered a glimpse behind the curtain of a decades-long friendship and a changing landscape for late-night television. With Colbert announcing his departure in April and a planned exit in may, these visits carry added weight, serving as both a celebration of his legacy and a poignant acknowledgment of an era coming to a close.
The reciprocal appearances-Kimmel on The Late Show and Colbert on Jimmy Kimmel Live!-were characterized by a willingness to playfully break character, hinting at a desire to shed the polished veneer of their on-air personas. These moments resonated with audiences and sparked widespread media coverage,highlighting the unique bond between two of the most influential figures in comedy and broadcasting. as late-night television navigates evolving viewership habits and the rise of digital platforms, these displays of camaraderie offer a reminder of the enduring appeal of genuine connection and shared laughter.
Here are five standout moments from Kimmel and Colbert’s recent cross-show visits:
1. The “Go Nuts” challenge (April 10, 2024): during Kimmel’s appearance on The Late Show, Kimmel playfully challenged Colbert to “go nuts” before his departure, suggesting he abandon his usual composure. He jokingly proposed losing his glasses and even trying ayahuasca on set. This led to Kimmel gifting Colbert a bong designed as the Statue of Liberty, which he playfully labeled a “chemistry set.”
2. Colbert’s Rebellion (April 10, 2024): Responding to Kimmel’s challenge, Colbert began to playfully dismantle his on-air persona, unbuttoning his blazer and declaring “f- that” when informed he had only a minute remaining in the segment. He then quipped,”what are they gonna do,cancel me?” demonstrating a willingness to momentarily abandon his carefully constructed image.
3. Tequila Toast & Shared Shots (April 10, 2024): Guillermo Rodriguez, Kimmel’s longtime friend and sidekick, unexpectedly appeared on The Late Show stage bearing a bottle of Don Julio tequila and three shot glasses. The trio-Kimmel, Colbert, and Rodriguez-shared a toast “to good friends, great jobs and late-night TV” before taking a round of shots.
4. The Bong & Another Toast (April 10, 2024): Following the tequila, Kimmel presented the Statue of Liberty bong to Colbert again, prompting another round of shots. Kimmel then offered a toast directly to Colbert, acknowledging their friendship and the importance of the moment.
5. Colbert Returns the Favor (April 11, 2024): On Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Colbert reciprocated the playful energy, engaging in a lighthearted back-and-forth with Kimmel and participating in the show’s signature “Mean tweets” segment, reading aloud critical comments about himself with characteristic wit. While details of specific gifts or toasts on Colbert’s show were less widely reported, the overall tone mirrored the warmth and camaraderie displayed on The late Show.
