After almost a decade of snatching wigs off of any and all politicians, Jon Stewart announced he’s leaving the wildly popular The Daily Show, and if we’re going to be honest here, we’re not sure how to handle this.
Stewart announced the coming departure Tuesday night (February 10) during the show’s taping and Comedy Central President Michele Ganeless confirmed it in a statement.
“For the better part of the last two decades, I have had the incredible honor and privilege of working with Jon Stewart. His comedic brilliance is second to none. Jon has been at the heart of Comedy Central, championing and nurturing the best talent in the industry, in front of and behind the camera. Through his unique voice and vision, ‘The Daily Show’ has become a cultural touchstone for millions of fans and an unparalleled platform for political comedy that will endure for years to come. Jon will remain at the helm of ‘The Daily Show’ until later this year. He is a comic genius, generous with his time and talent, and will always be a part of the Comedy Central family.”
Under Stewart’s leadership, The Daily Show earned 50 Emmy nominations and took home 15. In 2000 and 2004 the show earned two Peabody Awards for its coverage of the presidential elections, aptly titled “Indecision 2000” and “Indecision 2004.” Stewart also assisted in Stephen Colbert’s success, as Colbert was a commentator on The Daily Show before starting The Colbert Report and then replacing David Letterman over at CBS.
No word on why Stewart is leaving, what he plans to do next, and if the show will continue, but as we said earlier, we’re still not sure how to handle this.