The sudden and harsh taste of a Stephen Colbert-free late-night lineup won't last any longer, thank goodness. Comedy Central said the host is coming back to work with a new episode taping on Monday. Ann Patchett's scheduled as the guest, with new guests slated for the rest of the week including author Robert Kagen, U.S. Rep. Nancy Pelosi, and Los Angeles Opera director Placido Domingo. Colbert stopped taping of the show late last Wednesday in order to care for his 91-year-old mother, Lorna, who was ill, Reuters reported. Colbert's expected to address the absence on Monday's show, but in the meantime, he thanked his loudly concerned fans for their support on Twitter Friday: "My family and I would like to thank everyone who has offered their thoughts and prayers. We are grateful and touched by your concern."

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Adam Martin