Jon Stewart’s departure from The Daily Show, after nearly 20 years on the air, was very difficult for many of us to accept. After all, study after study shows that a huge percentage of us get more news from satire news shows, like The Daily Show, than network evening news. While Trevor Noah is killing it as the show’s new host, Stewart’s presence is sorely missed and we have all wondered when, and where, we will see him next.
That burning question was answered today, when president of programming at HBO, Michael Lombardo, announced that they have signed a four-year exclusive contract with Jon Stewart. Lombardo said:
Jon Stewart led a revolution that changed the face of TV comedy on the ‘Daily Show’. He graced our network nearly 20 years ago, so we’re thrilled to welcome back his immense talents in this next chapter of his career.
Stewart will begin work with HBO by producing “short-form digital content” to appear on HBO’s streaming services, as well as “a first-look option for other film and TV ventures”. The nature of Stewart’s initial short-form content will be familiar to long time fans; he’ll be discussing “current events through his unique prism”. These shorts will be released multiple times per day through HBO Now. Any other additional project will be announced as it is confirmed.
This news comes as a thrill to any fan of Stewart’s, and answers months of speculation and curiosity. But how does Stewart feel about the return to television?
I’m excited to be working with Richard [Plepler], Michael, and the entire HBO family. Appearing on television 22 minutes a night clearly broke me. I’m pretty sure I can produce a few minutes of content every now and again.
Stewart stepped down from hosting The Daily Show after 16 years on the air, after winning multiple Emmys and two Peabody Awards. I know I for one can’t wait to see what this next stage in his career holds.
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