Jon Stewart to Step Down as Host of The Daily Show

Posted on February 16, 2015

Jon Stewart announced last week that he is retiring from The Daily Show on Comedy Central. Stewart is the face of the satirical show and has been the host since 1998. The show was initially hosted by Craig Kilborn. Stewart says he will retire by the end of 2015.

Comedy Central said in a statement, "For the better part of the last two decades, we have had the inedible 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."

Stewart dropped the bombshell to his unexpected audience. He says 17 years is the longest he has ever held a job by 16 years and five months. He says he is a terrible employee. He says it is "time for someone else" to have the opportunity.

Stewart didn't reveal what he plans to do next. He is very talented so he can do about anything he wants in books, writing, television and film. Stewart says the show does not deserve "an even slightly restless host." Take a look:

The Washington Post notes that it will be authors and book publicists that miss Jon Stewart. Under Stewart's reign the show has been a great platform for promoting books, including political books and lesser known titles that are difficult to get coverage for.