"Colbert Report" to return Monday after absence

TV Personality Stephen Colbert attends IAVA's Fifth Annual Heroes Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street on Nov. 9, 2011, in New York City. / Joe Corrigan/Getty Images

NEW YORK - A representative for Stephen Colbert says "The Colbert Report" will return Monday after a sudden break due to the ailing health of the star's mother.

The Comedy Central show last week substituted repeats for scheduled shows on Wednesday and Thursday. At the time, the network said only that the cancellations were because of "unforeseen circumstances."

Colbert is expected to address his absence on Monday. His 91-year-old mother, Lorna Colbert, is ill.

Stephen Colbert halts show for mother, a report says

Earlier on Twitter, Colbert thanked those who had offered "thoughts and prayers."

Colbert's father, James Colbert, and two of his brothers were killed in an airplane crash in 1974.

[kansas1946]

Welcome back Stephen.

[marychgo]

Hope she's feeling better, Stephen....

[micmac666]

All the best to you and your family, Stephen. And thanks for all the laughs.