Jon Stewart isn’t leaving The Daily Show anytime soon.
The comedian and political satirist has signed another one-year extension to continue as host and executive producer of The Daily Show through the end of 2026. This marks his third consecutive annual deal since returning to the program, securing his place behind the desk until December of next year.
The renewal doesn’t come as a surprise. During a live conversation with The New Yorker’s David Remnick last month, Stewart hinted at the continuation, saying, “We’re working on staying.”
Currently, Stewart anchors Monday nights, while correspondents Ronny Chieng, Jordan Klepper, Michael Kosta, Desi Lydic, and writer Josh Johnson rotate hosting duties throughout the rest of the week. Stewart originally returned to the show at the beginning of 2024, after signing a short-term deal that has now been repeatedly extended.
Ratings for The Daily Show have been strong, and the program recently celebrated a successful awards season — earning its highest number of Emmy nominations in years, with Desi Lydic taking home a win.
Still, some uncertainty has surrounded the show’s future following parent company Paramount’s abrupt cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, another program on which Stewart serves as an executive producer.
Stewart addressed these concerns in his New Yorker interview, acknowledging frustrations with the company: “[Paramount has] already done things that I’m upset about. But maybe the real test of integrity isn’t quitting — maybe it’s staying and fighting in the foxhole.”
After news of The Late Show’s cancellation, Stewart reportedly joked that he told his bosses to “go f*ck yourself” and wondered whether new parent company Skydance, led by David Ellison, would “let us back in the building” after the summer break.
Stewart continues to executive produce The Daily Show alongside showrunner Jen Flanz and his longtime manager James “Baby Doll” Dixon.
“Jon Stewart continues to redefine the genre he helped invent,” said Ari Pearce, Head of Comedy Central. “His return reinforces our commitment to the sharp wit and fearless commentary that make The Daily Show essential viewing. This renewal is a win for audiences, for Comedy Central, and for all our partners. We’re thrilled to keep Jon and this incredible team at the helm.”
