Jon Stewart is set to return as host of The Daily Show in 2026, according to the latest announcement. Stewart originally served as full-time host from 1999 to 2015 before returning to a part-time role in 2024. Amid recent late-night shakeups, there had been uncertainty surrounding his future with the show. However, Comedy Central’s leadership has confirmed that the program has been renewed, with Stewart staying on for another year.
Jon Stewart to continue as one of The Daily Show hosts through 2026
Stewart will continue hosting The Daily Show once a week next year. His current contract was set to conclude this year but has now been extended through December 2026. Ari Pearce, head of Comedy Central, released a statement confirming Stewart’s future at the network.
He said, “Jon Stewart continues to elevate the genre he created. His return is an ongoing commitment to the incisive comedy and sharp commentary that define The Daily Show. The renewal is a win for audiences, for Comedy Central, and for all our programming partners. We’re proud to support Jon and the extraordinary news team” (via Variety).
In conversation with The New Yorker’s David Remnick, Stewart was asked whether he planned to renew his contract, which was due to expire at the end of this year. He gave a positive response, expressing hope to continue doing the show.
He added, “We’re working on staying. Look, the other thing to remember is it’s not as clear-cut as all that … They’ve already done things that I’m upset about. But then if I had integrity, maybe I would stand up and go, ‘I’m out.’ Or maybe the integrity thing to do would be to stay in it and keep fighting in the foxhole.”
Expressing his dedication to the program, Stewart said, “You don’t compromise on what you do, and you do it until they tell you to leave” (via Deadline).
