This is not your moment of zen.
Jon Stewart, the irreverent host of “The Daily Show” since 1999, will step down from the program later this year, NBC News has confirmed.
“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,” Comedy Central president Michele Ganeless said in a statement Tuesday.
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Stewart announced the news on his show late Tuesday with his signature comedic spin. “In my heart I know it is time for someone else to have that opportunity. … Not right away. It’s going to be, you know, we’re still working out details. … I don’t have any specific plans — got a lot of ideas. I’ve got a lot of things in my head. I’m gonna have dinner on a school night with my family, who I have heard from multiple sources are lovely people.
The host thanked viewers for tuning in, even those who “hate watch” the show. “You get in this business with the idea that maybe you have a point of view and something to express. And to receive feedback from that is the greatest feeling i can ask for,” he said.








