Late-night television has always thrived on humor, rivalry, and unexpected surprises. Among today’s biggest names, Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert stand out—not only as hosts of their own hit shows but also as occasional collaborators (and playful rivals).

Over the years, their paths have crossed in hilarious ways, creating moments that fans rewatch and share across social media. Let’s revisit some of the funniest highlights between Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert that prove why these two remain at the top of the late-night comedy world.

The Surprise Emmy Roast

At the Emmy Awards, Stephen Colbert took the stage only to be “interrupted” by Jimmy Kimmel, who couldn’t resist sneaking in a playful jab. The two traded jokes about ratings, hairlines, and politics—leaving the audience in stitches.

“Nothing’s funnier than watching two pros roast each other live, knowing they’ll be back on air the next night pretending it never happened.”

The chemistry was undeniable, and fans quickly crowned the exchange one of the most memorable award-show moments in recent years.

Colbert Hijacks Kimmel’s Monologue

In one unforgettable late-night crossover, Stephen Colbert stormed Jimmy Kimmel’s set and delivered part of the opening monologue. The stunt blurred the line between rivalry and partnership, with Colbert joking:
“I’m just here because Jimmy Fallon’s show was full tonight.”

The audience roared, and even Kimmel struggled to keep a straight face. The bit went viral, proving that even scripted chaos can feel like genuine late-night magic.

A Mean Tweets Cameo to Remember

Jimmy Kimmel’s iconic “Celebrities Read Mean Tweets” segment has featured dozens of stars, but one of the biggest laughs came when Stephen Colbert appeared. Reading a particularly brutal tweet, Colbert responded in deadpan fashion:
“That’s not mean—that’s just accurate.”

The delivery, the timing, and the look on Kimmel’s face made the segment instantly memorable. It also reminded fans that even a late-night giant like Colbert doesn’t take himself too seriously.

The Late-Night Olympics Skit

During a comedy sketch designed as a fake Olympics for talk-show hosts, Kimmel and Colbert competed in absurd events like “fastest coffee chug” and “loudest fake laugh.”

The parody poked fun at the often repetitive nature of late-night talk shows while showcasing their natural chemistry. Fans later declared it one of the most creative crossovers ever aired, blending satire with slapstick in a way only Kimmel and Colbert could pull off.

The Accidental Advertisement

Most recently, Jimmy Kimmel made headlines when he jokingly—or accidentally—plugged The Late Show with Stephen Colbert during one of his own segments. The internet immediately erupted, calling it:
“The best free ad Colbert never paid for.”

Whether intentional or not, the moment was pure comedy gold. It became a trending clip online, with fans sharing it as proof that their rivalry is always more fun than serious.

Bonus Green Room Banter

While most fans only see what happens on-screen, one of the funniest stories came from backstage at an award show. A reporter revealed that Kimmel and Colbert once spent 15 minutes arguing about who had the “more comfortable green room.”

The playful banter reportedly included jabs about snack selections, lighting, and even the quality of the couches. The exchange showed that their comedic rivalry doesn’t stop when the cameras are off. Even behind the scenes, their quick wit never fails to entertain.

Why Their Humor Works

The reason these moments stand out is simple: Kimmel and Colbert represent two sides of late-night humor.

Kimmel leans into absurd, sometimes self-deprecating comedy.

Colbert blends satire with sharp political wit.

When combined, they create a comedic cocktail that feels fresh and unpredictable—reminding us why late-night TV still matters in the streaming age.

Audiences also love seeing stars from different networks cross paths. It breaks the illusion of competition and gives viewers something rare: two hosts setting egos aside to make people laugh together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Have Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert ever officially collaborated?
Not on a full project, but they have appeared on each other’s shows and frequently cross paths at award ceremonies and TV specials.

Who usually gets the last laugh between them?
It depends on the setting. Kimmel often wins with slapstick humor, while Colbert’s sharp wit shines in satire. Fans agree the rivalry is more about fun than competition.

Will we see more Kimmel–Colbert crossovers in the future?
Very likely. Both networks understand that fans love these moments, and with the rise of social media clips, such crossovers drive huge engagement.

Conclusion

From award shows to talk-show takeovers, Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert have proven that comedy doesn’t stop at network rivalries. Their exchanges—sometimes planned, sometimes spontaneous—remind us why late-night TV still holds a special place in entertainment.

As fans eagerly wait for the next crossover, one thing is certain: whenever Kimmel and Colbert share a stage, laughter is guaranteed.