Stephen Colbert celebrates Emmy win by picking fight with Jon Stewart

“The Colbert Report” finally put an end to “The Daily Show’s” 10-year winning streak at the Emmys on Sunday night, claiming the title of outstanding variety series for the first time.

While the real Stephen Colbert was gracious and modest in his acceptance speech at the Nokia Theatre, Stephen Colbert the character seized the opportunity to gloat in his first night back on the air Tuesday.

Using his Emmy to dial the number, Colbert phoned up his vanquished opponent, Jon Stewart, to “wish him a sincere ‘bite me.’ ”

But Stewart wasn’t willing to take the bait. “Stephen Colbert, I couldn’t be happier for you,” he declared.

PHOTOS: Classic ‘Tonight Show’ moments

“No, Jon, you’re not. Your historic streak has been snapped by me,” Colbert insisted, but, in spite of the goading, Stewart refused to be angry about the loss.

In fact, he gleefully pointed out that, as an executive producer on “The Colbert Report,” it means that his winning streak is not yet over.

“Damn you!” Colbert screamed, shaking his Emmy with rage.

Kidding aside, it was a touching and very apt way for Stewart to acknowledge “The Colbert Report’s” much-deserved win. If only everyone in showbiz got along so well.

ALSO:

Emmys 2013: Stephen Colbert provides some variety

Stephen Colbert’s most awkward interview ever?

Stephen Colbert sides with ‘pro-dead kitten’ N.Y. mayoral candidate