Jon Stewart announces decision to quit The Daily Show
Jon Stewart, host of The Daily Show, has announced he is to step down from the presenting role he has held for over 16 years before the year is out, although he is still ironing out the precise details with Comedy Central.
Departing to spend more time with his family Stewart told viewers he ‘wasn’t going anywhere tomorrow’ but wanted to keep his audience in the loop by speaking directly of his intentions.
Stewart said: “Seventeen years is the longest I have ever held a job in my life - by sixteen years and five months. The upshot being I am a terrible employee but in my heart I know it is time for someone else to have that opportunity.
“it’s been an absolute privilege and I thank you for watching it, for hate watching it, whatever reason you’re tuning in for.”
Stewart began his stint hosting The Daily Show in 1999, gaining fame for his distinctively irreverent take on the news of the day.