STAGE TUBE: Stephen Colbert Explains Recent Absence on THE COLBERT REPORT

Comedian Stephen Colbert returned to his news desk on THE COLBERT REPORT last night after a brief hiatus from the show. He began the hour-long program by explaining the reason behind the abrupt cancellation of last week's tapings.

Without getting into detail, the funnyman explained that the break in production last Wednesday and Thursday was due to his 91-year-old mother, Lorna's health. Explained Colbert, "Evidently, having 11 children makes you tough as nails," Colbert, who is the youngest of 11 children quickly added, "Confidential to a lovely lady," before touching his nose, a move speculated to be a special signal to his mother who was watching from home.

On his Twitter account yesterday, Colbert thanked fans for their understanding and support during the past several days, posting, "My family and I would like to thank everyone who has offered their thoughts and prayers. We are grateful and touched by your concern."

During last weeks brief hiatus, Comedy Central had aired repeat episodes of the show. They initially explained the scheduling change on "unforeseen circumstances." A source close to the family told the New York Post last week, "They are a very private family. It's not surprising that he did not want anyone to know what was going on."

To view Colbert's return to THE COLBERT REPORT last night, click below!