NEW YORK CITY – Comedian John Oliver expressed his surprise upon learning that Jon Stewart will be returning as the host of “The Daily Show.” Oliver, known for his show “Last Week Tonight,” was caught off guard by the news during an interview on NBC’s “Today” show.
Oliver commented on Stewart’s return, stating, “That’s a show that needs a host. He certainly is a very, very good one. So yeah, it’ll be exciting to see what he does.” However, Oliver also suggested that a permanent host should be appointed after 2025, listing former “Daily Show” correspondent Roy Wood Jr. and former Peacock host Amber Ruffin as potential candidates.
Oliver added that it will be particularly exciting to see Stewart back on the show during an election year. Comedy Central revealed that Stewart will host “The Daily Show” on Monday nights throughout the 2024 election cycle and will have an oversight role that could extend until 2025. Stewart will begin his on-air duties on February 12.
Stewart announced his return on Twitter, stating that he has “decided to enter the transfer portal for my last year of eligibility.” The news of Stewart’s return drew comparisons to Michael Jordan’s decision to come back to the Chicago Bulls after his retirement.
Stewart is closely associated with “The Daily Show,” as he hosted the satirical news program from 1999 until his departure in 2015. Oliver joined the show as a senior British correspondent in 2006 and worked with Stewart for seven years before leaving in 2013.
In conclusion, the return of Jon Stewart to “The Daily Show” has created excitement and curiosity among fans and fellow comedians alike. Stewart’s involvement during an election year adds additional anticipation to his comeback. It remains to be seen what new direction he will take the show in and how his presence will impact the late-night comedy landscape.