SM. SHOCKWAVE IN LATE-NIGHT: Jimmy Kimmel Rejects ABC Comeback Without Apology — Then Stuns Fans by Sailing Into a New Alliance With Colbert and Crockett

In a media landscape increasingly dominated by corporate interests and sanitized narratives, a new wave of late-night television is emerging—one that prioritizes authenticity, unfiltered discourse, and political engagement. This transformation is embodied by the trio of Stephen Colbert, Representative Jasmine Crockett, and Jimmy Kimmel, whose recent collaboration on the show Unfiltered is challenging the conventions of traditional late-night programming.

The Genesis of Unfiltered

Stephen Colbert’s abrupt departure from CBS in 2025, following the network’s decision to end The Late Show in May 2026, marked the beginning of a significant shift in late-night television. Rather than fading into obscurity, Colbert partnered with Texas Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett to launch Unfiltered, a show that combines Colbert’s sharp satirical wit with Crockett’s incisive political commentary. The show’s premise is straightforward: to deliver unvarnished truths, free from the constraints of corporate sponsors and network executives.

The debut of Unfiltered was met with immediate success. The show quickly garnered a dedicated following, with episodes going viral due to their candid discussions on pressing political issues and their fearless approach to topics often avoided by mainstream media. This success underscored a growing public appetite for content that challenges the status quo and engages with political realities head-on.

The Unexpected Return of Jimmy Kimmel

In a surprising turn of events, Jimmy Kimmel, long associated with ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live!, joined Unfiltered, adding another layer of depth to the show’s dynamic. Kimmel’s return to television came after a brief suspension by ABC in September 2025, following comments he made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. His remarks, which criticized the political exploitation of Kirk’s death, led to backlash from conservative figures and media outlets, prompting ABC to suspend the show.

Despite the suspension, Kimmel’s return episode on September 23, 2025, was a resounding success. The episode attracted over 6 million viewers, marking the highest ratings for a regular episode of the show in over a decade. Additionally, his monologue, which addressed issues of free speech and unity, garnered over 19 million views on YouTube, signaling a strong public endorsement of his message and a rejection of attempts to silence dissenting voices

The Power of Unfiltered Discourse

The collaboration between Colbert, Crockett, and Kimmel represents more than just a merger of comedic talent and political insight; it signifies a broader cultural shift towards embracing unfiltered discourse in media. Unfiltered has become a platform where complex political issues are discussed openly, without the usual media spin or corporate censorship. This approach has resonated with audiences who are increasingly disillusioned with traditional media outlets that often prioritize sensationalism over substance.

The show’s success also highlights the potential for independent media ventures to thrive in the digital age. By leveraging online platforms and bypassing traditional broadcast channels, Unfiltered has reached a wide audience, proving that there is a demand for content that challenges conventional narratives and encourages critical thinking.

The Implications for Late-Night Television

The rise of Unfiltered signals a potential turning point for late-night television. For years, late-night shows have been seen as platforms for light-hearted entertainment, often steering clear of deep political engagement. However, the success of Unfiltered suggests that audiences are ready for a more substantive approach to late-night programming—one that combines humor with serious political discourse.

This shift could inspire other late-night hosts to adopt a more fearless and unfiltered approach to their content. It also raises questions about the future of traditional networks and their ability to adapt to changing audience expectations. As more viewers turn to digital platforms for their entertainment, networks may need to reconsider their strategies and embrace more diverse and bold programming choices.

The collaboration between Stephen Colbert, Jasmine Crockett, and Jimmy Kimmel on Unfiltered is more than just a new television show; it represents a cultural movement towards embracing authenticity, political engagement, and unfiltered discourse in media. In an era where audiences are increasingly seeking content that challenges the status quo, Unfiltered stands as a testament to the power of independent media and the enduring appeal of voices that refuse to be silenced.

As the media landscape continues to evolve, the success of Unfiltered may serve as a blueprint for future programming that values substance over sensationalism and encourages viewers to engage critically with the world around them. In this new era of late-night television, the truth is not just out there—it’s being delivered, unfiltered, every night.