Jon Stewart’s Comeback to ‘The Daily Show’ After Apple TV+ Drama
Jon Stewart is making a triumphant return to the show that made him a household name. Eight years after he left “The Daily Show” and passed the torch to Trever Noah, Stewart is coming back to host the popular comedy news program every Monday starting on February 12.
He will be joined by a rotating cast of familiar faces and new talents who will cover the rest of the week.
Stewart’s comeback follows the abrupt cancelation of his Apple TV+ series “The Problem With Jon Stewart” in November 2023.
The show, which debuted in 2020, featured Stewart tackling various “problems” in the current affairs and social justice spheres.
However, sources say that Stewart clashed with Apple executives over some of his creative choices for the third season, including controversial guests and topics related to China and artificial intelligence.
Apple had signed a multi-year deal with Stewart in 2020, hoping to attract viewers with his sharp wit and political savvy.
However, the show failed to generate much buzz or critical acclaim, and was overshadowed by other Apple TV+ hits like “Ted Lasso” and “The Morning Show”.
Stewart reportedly felt frustrated by Apple’s interference and lack of support, and decided to end the partnership.
Stewart will now be back on Comedy Central, where he hosted “The Daily Show” from 1999 to 2015. During his tenure, he won 22 Emmy Awards and became one of the most influential voices in American politics and culture.
He also launched the careers of many comedians, such as Stephen Colbert, John Oliver, Samantha Bee, and Hasan Minhaj.
Stewart said that he is excited to return to his roots and help “make sense of the insanity and division roiling the country as we enter the election season.”
Paramount Media Networks CEO, who oversees Comedy Central, said that Stewart is the “voice of our generation” and that he is thrilled to welcome him back to the network.
He added that Stewart will bring his unique perspective and humor to the show, and that he expects him to draw a large and loyal audience.