History of Jon Stewart in Timeline
Jon Stewart is a multifaceted American entertainer known for his work as a comedian, writer, producer, director, satirist, political commentator, actor, and television host. He gained significant recognition for hosting Comedy Central's 'The Daily Show' from 1999 to 2015 and returned to the show in 2024. Stewart also hosted 'The Problem with Jon Stewart' on Apple TV+ from 2021 to 2023. His career has been decorated with numerous awards, including 22 Primetime Emmy Awards, two Grammy Awards, five Peabody Awards, the Bronze Medallion, and the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.
1931: Birth of Donald Leibowitz
Jon Stewart's father, Donald Leibowitz, was born in 1931.
November 28, 1962: Birth of Jon Stewart
Jon Stewart was born Jonathan Stuart Leibowitz on November 28, 1962, in New York City.
1971: Al Albert Becomes Head Coach of William & Mary Men's Soccer
Al Albert became the head coach of the College of William & Mary men's soccer team in 1971, a position he held for over three decades.
1980: Jon Stewart Graduates High School
Jon Stewart graduated from Lawrence High School in 1980.
1981: Jon Stewart's First Year on William & Mary Soccer Team
Jon Stewart began his three-year stint as a starter on the College of William & Mary men's soccer team in 1981.
1982: Jon Stewart's Second Year on William & Mary Soccer Team
Jon Stewart played his second year as a starter on the College of William & Mary men's soccer team in 1982.
1983: Jon Stewart's Final Year on William & Mary Soccer Team
Jon Stewart played his third and final year as a starter on the College of William & Mary men's soccer team in 1983.
1984: Jon Stewart Graduates from William & Mary
Jon Stewart graduated from the College of William & Mary with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1984.
1986: Jon Stewart Returns to New York City
After graduating college, Jon Stewart moved back to New York City in 1986 to pursue a career in comedy.
1988: Stewart Votes for George H.W. Bush
Jon Stewart revealed that he voted for George H.W. Bush over Michael Dukakis in the 1988 presidential election, citing his respect for Bush's integrity.
1989: Jon Stewart Becomes a Writer for "Caroline's Comedy Hour"
Jon Stewart landed his first television writing job on "Caroline's Comedy Hour" in 1989.
1990: Jon Stewart Co-hosts "Short Attention Span Theater"
In 1990, Jon Stewart began co-hosting "Short Attention Span Theater" on Comedy Central alongside Patty Rosborough.
March 6, 1992: Jon Stewart Appears on "Late Night with David Letterman"
Jon Stewart made a notable appearance on "Late Night with David Letterman" on March 6, 1992, which is considered a turning point in his career.
1992: Jon Stewart Hosts "You Wrote It, You Watch It"
Jon Stewart hosted a short-lived show on MTV called "You Wrote It, You Watch It" in 1992.
1993: The Jon Stewart Show Premiere
In 1993, Jon Stewart launched his first talk show, "The Jon Stewart Show," on MTV, which became a quick success and the network's second-highest-rated show.
1993: Jon Stewart Hosts "MTV Spring Break '93 Blind Date"
Jon Stewart co-hosted "MTV Spring Break '93 Blind Date" with Melissa Rivers in 1993.
1994: The Jon Stewart Show Syndication
Following the cancellation of "The Arsenio Hall Show" in 1994, "The Jon Stewart Show" was syndicated and expanded to an hour-long late-night format.
June 1995: The Jon Stewart Show Cancellation
In June 1995, "The Jon Stewart Show" was canceled due to dismal ratings after being moved to a late-night time slot.
1995: Miramax Deal and Film Roles
Jon Stewart signed a three-year deal with Miramax in 1995. He appeared in films like "Mixed Nuts," "The First Wives Club" (scene deleted), "Playing by Heart," "Wishful Thinking," "Since You've Been Gone," and "The Faculty."
1995: Blind Date with Tracey Lynn McShane
In 1995, Jon Stewart was set up on a blind date with Tracey Lynn McShane by a production assistant on 'Wishful Thinking,' leading to their eventual marriage.
1995: The Jon Stewart Show is Cancelled
After moving from MTV to syndication, "The Jon Stewart Show" was ultimately cancelled in 1995.
October 6, 1996: Where's Elvis This Week? Premiere
Jon Stewart's short-lived talk show, "Where's Elvis This Week?," premiered in the UK on October 6, 1996.
1996: Jon Stewart's Previous Stand-Up Special
Jon Stewart's last stand-up special prior to his planned 2017 HBO special aired in 1996.
1997: Hosting and Acting Roles
In 1997, Jon Stewart hosted George Carlin's HBO special, had a recurring role on "The Larry Sanders Show," and headlined the White House Correspondents' dinner.
1998: Elmopalooza and Book Release
In 1998, Jon Stewart hosted the "Elmopalooza" television special. He also released his first book, "Naked Pictures of Famous People," which became a New York Times Best Seller.
January 11, 1999: The Daily Show Debut
Jon Stewart began hosting Comedy Central's "The Daily Show" on January 11, 1999, after Craig Kilborn left to host "The Late Late Show."
1999: Jon Stewart Begins Hosting "The Daily Show"
In 1999, Jon Stewart became the host of "The Daily Show" on Comedy Central, a role that would launch him to comedic fame.
2000: Peabody Award for Indecision 2000
"The Daily Show" won a Peabody Award in 2000 for its coverage of the US presidential election, titled "Indecision 2000."
2000: First Peabody Award for The Daily Show
In 2000, Jon Stewart and The Daily Show received their first Peabody Award for the 'Indecision 2000' coverage of the presidential election, recognizing the show's excellence in broadcasting.
2000: Stewart Expresses Political Views
In 2000, Jon Stewart identified as "more socialist or independent" than Democrat, despite being labeled as such.
2000: Marriage to Tracey Lynn McShane
In 2000, Jon Stewart married Tracey Lynn McShane, marking the beginning of their long-term partnership.
June 19, 2001: Legal Name Change
On June 19, 2001, Jon Stewart and his wife legally changed their surnames to 'Stewart,' marking a significant personal milestone in their lives.
September 11, 2001: September 11 Attacks
The September 11 attacks occurred, deeply impacting the nation and leading to a hiatus for "The Daily Show."
September 20, 2001: The Daily Show Returns After 9/11
On September 20, 2001, "The Daily Show" returned from hiatus following the September 11 attacks. Jon Stewart delivered a heartfelt opening segment reflecting on the tragedy.
2001: First Primetime Emmy Award for The Daily Show
In 2001, The Daily Show received the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program, marking one of its many Emmy wins under Jon Stewart's leadership.
2001: Jon Stewart Hosts the Grammy Awards
Jon Stewart hosted the Grammy Awards in 2001.
2001: Jon Stewart Legally Changes His Name
Jon Stewart legally changed his surname from Leibowitz to Stewart in 2001.
2002: Jon Stewart Hosts the Grammy Awards
Jon Stewart hosted the Grammy Awards for the second time in 2002.
2002: Busboy Productions Revival and Planned Sitcom
Jon Stewart revived Busboy Productions in 2002 and planned to produce a sitcom for NBC starring Stephen Colbert, but the project was not picked up.
2002: Rumored as Letterman's Replacement
Jon Stewart was rumored as a potential replacement for David Letterman on "The Late Show" in mid-2002 amid rumors of Letterman's possible departure to ABC.
2002: Jon Stewart Stars in "Death to Smoochy"
Jon Stewart appeared in the film "Death to Smoochy" in 2002.
2002: ABC Considers Stewart for Post-Nightline Talk Show
In 2002, ABC considered Jon Stewart for his own talk show following Nightline, but ultimately chose Jimmy Kimmel.
December 2003: Newsweek's 'Who's Next?' Person for 2004
In the December 2003 New Year's edition of Newsweek, Jon Stewart was named the 'Who's Next?' person for 2004, with the prediction that he would become an absolute sensation in the upcoming year.
2003: Al Albert Retires as Head Coach of William & Mary Men's Soccer
Al Albert retired as the head coach of the College of William & Mary men's soccer team in 2003 after a long and successful tenure.
2003: Primetime Emmy Awards for The Daily Show
In 2003, The Daily Show won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program and began a 10-year streak of winning Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series.
October 15, 2004: Stewart Criticizes "Crossfire" and Television Journalism
Jon Stewart appeared on CNN's "Crossfire" on October 15, 2004, where he criticized the show and television journalism, calling out hosts Tucker Carlson and Paul Begala as "partisan hacks" and accusing the show of harming America. The exchange gained significant attention online and sparked media discussions.
2004: Release of "America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction"
Jon Stewart co-authored the satirical book "America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction", which was released in 2004.
2004: Stewart's Heated Exchange on "Crossfire"
In 2004, during his appearance on "Crossfire", Jon Stewart argued that the show prioritized partisan bias over meaningful political discourse. He criticized the hosts, likening the show to "pro wrestling" rather than genuine debate. He further called out CNN's credibility, pointing out its programming choices. Stewart's criticisms were met with defensive retorts from the hosts, including personal attacks.
2004: Continued Emmy Success for The Daily Show
In 2004, The Daily Show continued its Emmy success, winning both Outstanding Writing and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series.
2004: Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree
In 2004, Jon Stewart spoke at the commencement ceremonies at his alma mater, William and Mary, and received an honorary Doctor of Arts degree. He also served as the Class Day keynote speaker at Princeton University.
2004: Jon Stewart's Breakout Year
In 2004, Jon Stewart emerged as a significant figure in media and comedy, fulfilling Newsweek's prediction. His influence and popularity surged during this year.
2004: Second Peabody Award for The Daily Show
In 2004, Jon Stewart and The Daily Show received their second Peabody Award for the 'Indecision 2004' coverage of the presidential election, further solidifying the show's reputation for excellence.
2004: Peabody Award for Indecision 2004
"The Daily Show" received another Peabody Award in 2004 for its coverage of that year's US presidential election, "Indecision 2004."
2004: Release of "America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction" and Commencement Address
In 2004, Jon Stewart and The Daily Show writing staff published "America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction," a satirical textbook. It achieved significant commercial success. The same year, Stewart gave the commencement address at his alma mater, the College of William & Mary.
January 2005: CNN Cancels "Crossfire"
CNN announced the cancellation of "Crossfire" in January 2005, with incoming president Jonathan Klein acknowledging Stewart's criticism of the show's unproductive nature and contribution to noise rather than meaningful discussion.
2005: Grammy Award for America (The Book)
Jon Stewart and "The Daily Show" won a Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album in 2005 for the audiobook edition of "America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction."
2005: Jon Stewart Executive Produces "The Colbert Report"
Jon Stewart began executive producing "The Colbert Report" in 2005, a satirical news program hosted by Stephen Colbert.
2005: Emmy and Grammy Wins for Jon Stewart
In 2005, The Daily Show won the Emmy for Outstanding Writing and Outstanding Variety Series. Jon Stewart also won the Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album for 'America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction.'
2005: Voice Role in Sarah Vowell's "Assassination Vacation"
In 2005, Stewart lent his voice to the audiobook version of Sarah Vowell's "Assassination Vacation," portraying President James A. Garfield.
2005: Time 100 Most Influential People
In 2005, Jon Stewart was named among the Time 100, an annual list of the 100 most influential people of the year, recognizing his impact on media and comedy.
2005: NCTE George Orwell Award
In 2005, Jon Stewart and The Daily Show received the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) George Orwell Award for Distinguished Contribution to Honesty and Clarity in Public Language.
2005: Comedy Central Partnership and Production Deal
In 2005, Comedy Central partnered with Jon Stewart's production company, Busboy, leading to various projects including "The Colbert Report" and "The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore."
March 5, 2006: Jon Stewart Hosts the 78th Academy Awards
On March 5, 2006, Jon Stewart took on the role of host for the 78th Academy Awards ceremony, held at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. His performance elicited a mixed bag of reviews. While Roger Ebert drew favorable comparisons to the iconic Oscar host Johnny Carson, other critics, including Tom Shales of The Washington Post, were less impressed.
April 4, 2006: Confrontation with Senator John McCain on The Daily Show
On April 4, 2006, Stewart questioned Senator John McCain's appearance at Liberty University on The Daily Show, sparking widespread media attention.
2006: Honorary All-America Award
In 2006, Jon Stewart was presented with an Honorary All-America Award by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA), recognizing his contributions beyond comedy.
2006: Emmy Wins for The Daily Show
In 2006, The Daily Show won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series.
2007: Voice Role in Stephen Colbert's "I Am America (And So Can You!)"
Stewart provided a voiceover for Stephen Colbert's audiobook "I Am America (And So Can You!)" in 2007, portraying the character Mort Sinclaire.
2007: Writers Guild Strike Begins
The Writers Guild of America strike began in 2007, impacting late-night television and leading to creative solutions to maintain viewership.
2007: Stephen Colbert's Presidential Run Announcement
The Daily Show was involved in Stephen Colbert's satirical 2008 presidential run announcement in 2007.
2007: Stewart Criticizes Hannity for Supporting Ted Nugent
In 2007, Jon Stewart criticized Sean Hannity for his support of Ted Nugent, taking issue with Nugent's inflammatory rhetoric towards Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.
2007: Stewart Supports Writers Guild Strike
Jon Stewart showed his support for the 2007-2008 Writers Guild of America strike, even sarcastically commenting on Comedy Central's decision to offer free episodes without advertising.
2007: Cameo in Evan Almighty
Jon Stewart made a cameo appearance as himself in the film "Evan Almighty" starring Steve Carell, in which he poked fun at Carell's character for building an ark.
January 7, 2008: Stewart Returns to Show, Refuses to Use "The Daily Show" Title
Upon returning to the show on January 7, 2008, after the strike, Stewart refused to call it "The Daily Show," instead using "A Daily Show with Jon Stewart" to emphasize the importance of his writing team.
February 13, 2008: Writers Guild Strike Ends
The Writers Guild of America strike ended on February 13, 2008, allowing for a return to normalcy on late-night television, including the reinstatement of the original "The Daily Show" title.
February 24, 2008: Jon Stewart Hosts the 80th Academy Awards
On February 24, 2008, Jon Stewart returned to host the 80th Academy Awards. His performance was better received than his previous hosting gig. Critics like Matthew Gilbert and Brian Lowry praised his comedic timing and ability to entertain.
2008: Sacerdote Great Names Speaker
In 2008, Jon Stewart was the Sacerdote Great Names speaker at Hamilton College, adding to his list of prestigious speaking engagements.
2008: Forbes List of Highest-Earning Celebrities
In 2008, Stewart was listed among the highest-earning celebrities by Forbes.
2008: Stewart, Colbert, and O'Brien Engage in Mock Feud
In 2008, amidst the Writers Guild Strike, Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, and Conan O'Brien created a humorous rivalry to boost ratings, engaging in cross-show banter and culminating in a staged brawl on O'Brien's show.
2008: Appearance on Democracy Now! and "Most Trusted Man in America" Discussion
Stewart appeared on "Democracy Now!" in 2008. That year, his credibility and influence led to discussions in The New York Times about whether he was the "most trusted man in America."
March 4, 2009: Stewart Mocks CNBC's Investment Advice
On March 4, 2009, "The Daily Show" aired a segment mocking CNBC's investment advice after Rick Santelli, a CNBC personality, canceled his appearance on the show. This event once again thrust Stewart into the center of online attention.
March 2009: Stewart Criticizes White House Proposal Affecting Veterans' Healthcare
In March 2009, Jon Stewart used The Daily Show platform to criticize a White House proposal to remove veterans with private insurance from VA rolls. The proposal was dropped a day later, highlighting Stewart's growing influence.
March 18, 2009: Carlson Criticizes Stewart's Post-"Crossfire" Behavior
On March 18, 2009, Tucker Carlson, in a blog post for The Daily Beast, revisited the 2004 "Crossfire" incident and criticized Jon Stewart's behavior after the show, alleging that Stewart continued to lecture the show's staff for an hour. Carlson found the incident unusual.
April 21, 2009: Made Chief by President of Liberia
On April 21, 2009, Jon Stewart was made a chief by the President of Liberia, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, in recognition of his contributions.
April 28, 2009: Controversy Over Harry S. Truman and Atomic Bomb Remarks
On April 28, 2009, Stewart sparked controversy by calling former President Harry S. Truman a war criminal for using atomic bombs on Japan. He later apologized for the remark.
November 2009: Stewart Criticizes Fox News for Footage Use and Gretchen Carlson's Comments
In November 2009, Jon Stewart called out Fox News for using footage from a previous Tea Party rally to inflate the attendance of a recent one. He also criticized Fox & Friends cohost Gretchen Carlson for downplaying her intelligence, suggesting she was pandering to an audience that viewed intellect negatively.
December 2009: Stewart Honors Bruce Springsteen at Kennedy Center
Jon Stewart, a fan of Bruce Springsteen, delivered a speech in his honor at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in December 2009, when Springsteen was a Kennedy Center Honors recipient.
2009: Stewart Confronts Jim Cramer on "The Daily Show"
Jon Stewart's criticism of CNBC in 2009 escalated into a highly anticipated on-air confrontation with Jim Cramer on "The Daily Show". The episode garnered significant viewership and online traffic, becoming the second most-watched episode of the show. While Cramer acknowledged the validity of some of Stewart's criticisms, he later labeled Stewart's views on media as "naïve and misleading".
2009: Emmy Wins for The Daily Show
In 2009, The Daily Show won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series.
March 2010: Optioning Rights to Maziar Bahari's Story
Stewart secured the rights to journalist Maziar Bahari's story in March 2010, which would later become the film "Rosewater."
April 2010: Contract Renewal with Comedy Central and Recognition
Comedy Central renewed Stewart's Daily Show contract in April 2010. By this time, he was earning $14 million annually and garnered comparisons to prominent figures like Edward R. Murrow, Will Rogers, and Mark Twain.
September 16, 2010: Announcement of the Rally to Restore Sanity and/or Fear
Stewart and Stephen Colbert announced the "Rally to Restore Sanity and/or Fear" on September 16, 2010.
October 26, 2010: Most Influential Man of 2010
On October 26, 2010, Jon Stewart was named the Most Influential Man of 2010 by AskMen, highlighting his significant impact on media and public discourse.
December 2010: Advocacy for the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act
In December 2010, Stewart's advocacy helped raise awareness about the Republican filibuster on the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, contributing to its eventual passage.
2010: Stewart Interviews 9/11 First Responders on Health Issues
In 2010, Jon Stewart hosted a poignant interview on The Daily Show with four 9/11 first responders, bringing attention to the health problems they faced as a result of their service.
2010: Stewart Intensifies Criticism of Fox News
In 2010, Jon Stewart significantly increased his criticism of Fox News, dedicating numerous segments of The Daily Show to critiquing their coverage. This led to a public back-and-forth with Bill O'Reilly, who labeled Stewart's show as "left-wing television."
2010: Release of "Earth (The Book): A Visitor's Guide to the Human Race"
Jon Stewart co-authored another satirical book titled "Earth (The Book): A Visitor's Guide to the Human Race", which was released in 2010.
2010: Stewart Holds Rally in 2010
Jon Stewart held a rally in 2010, an event later referenced by Sean Hannity during their back-and-forth criticisms.
January 10, 2011: Response to the Tucson, Arizona Shootings
Stewart addressed the Tucson, Arizona shootings on The Daily Show on January 10, 2011, expressing his concern about the state of political discourse.
June 6, 2011: Hosting Maziar Bahari on The Daily Show
Stewart hosted journalist Maziar Bahari, whom he would later feature in his film "Rosewater," on The Daily Show on June 6, 2011.
June 2011: Disagreement with Wyatt Cenac Over Herman Cain Segment
Stewart and writer Wyatt Cenac reportedly had a disagreement over a segment about Herman Cain that aired in June 2011, as revealed in July 2015.
June 19, 2011: Stewart Calls Chris Wallace "Insane" in Interview
During a June 19, 2011 interview, Jon Stewart called Chris Wallace "insane" for interpreting one of Stewart's jokes as a political comment. He also claimed that Fox News viewers were the "most consistently misinformed", a statement later deemed false by PolitiFact, leading Stewart to acknowledge his error.
October 2011: Jon Stewart's First Meeting with President Obama
Jon Stewart had his first unreported meeting with President Obama at the White House in October 2011.
2011: Emmy Wins for The Daily Show
In 2011, The Daily Show continued its Emmy success, winning Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series.
March 2012: Interview with Bruce Springsteen for Rolling Stone
Stewart interviewed musician Bruce Springsteen for Rolling Stone magazine in March 2012.
2012: Emmy Wins for The Daily Show
In 2012, The Daily Show won the Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series.
February 2013: Stewart Pays Tribute to Springsteen at MusiCares
In February 2013, Jon Stewart once again honored Bruce Springsteen with a speech at the MusiCares Person of the Year ceremony.
March 2013: Announcement of 12-Week Hiatus and "Rosewater" Directing
In March 2013, Stewart announced he would be taking 12 weeks off from The Daily Show to direct the film "Rosewater."
March 2013: Hiatus from The Daily Show to Direct "Rosewater"
Stewart announced a 12-week break from The Daily Show in March 2013 to direct "Rosewater."
June 10, 2013: John Oliver as Guest Host During Stewart's Hiatus
John Oliver took over hosting duties on The Daily Show during Stewart's 12-week hiatus starting June 10, 2013.
2013: Death of Donald Leibowitz
Donald Leibowitz, Jon Stewart's father, passed away in 2013.
2013: Purchase of Bufflehead Farm
In 2013, Jon Stewart and his wife bought a 12-acre farm in Middletown, New Jersey, named 'Bufflehead Farm,' which they operate as a sanctuary for abused animals.
2013: Emmy Wins for The Colbert Report
In 2013, The Colbert Report, a spin-off of The Daily Show, won the Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Writing and Outstanding Variety Series, taking over from The Daily Show.
2013: John Oliver Hosts The Daily Show
John Oliver took over hosting duties for "The Daily Show" during the summer of 2013 while Jon Stewart was away.
2013: The Daily Show Contract Extension
Stewart's contract with The Daily Show was extended through 2013.
February 2014: Jon Stewart's Second Meeting with President Obama
Jon Stewart's second unreported meeting with President Obama at the White House took place in February 2014.
July 14, 2014: Interview with Hillary Clinton and Discussion on Hamas
Stewart's interview with Hillary Clinton on July 14, 2014, included a discussion about Hamas and their role in Gaza.
August 2014: Stewart Engages in Extended Criticism of Fox News Coverage
In August 2014, Jon Stewart launched a prolonged critique of Fox News, alleging bias in their reporting on food stamps and government assistance. He specifically targeted Sean Hannity's coverage of the Bundy standoff, leading to a war of words between the two.
September 2014: Premiere of "Rosewater" at Toronto International Film Festival
"Rosewater" premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2014 to positive reviews.
November 14, 2014: Release of "Rosewater"
Stewart's directorial debut, "Rosewater," based on Maziar Bahari's imprisonment in Iran, premiered on November 14, 2014.
2014: End of "The Colbert Report"
After a successful run, "The Colbert Report", executive produced by Jon Stewart, came to an end in 2014.
February 10, 2015: Jon Stewart Announces Departure from The Daily Show
On February 10, 2015, during a taping of "The Daily Show," Jon Stewart announced his decision to step down from his role as host, a decision confirmed by Comedy Central president Michele Ganeless.
March 2015: Stewart's WWE Feud with Seth Rollins Begins
Jon Stewart began a comedic feud with WWE wrestler Seth Rollins in March 2015, even appearing in a Daily Show-style segment on WWE Raw hosted by Rollins.
April 20, 2015: Jon Stewart Announces Final Show Date
On April 20, 2015, Jon Stewart revealed that his final episode as host of "The Daily Show" would air on August 6, 2015.
June 19, 2015: Jon Stewart's Somber Response to Charleston Shooting
Following the tragic Charleston Church Shooting on June 19, 2015, Jon Stewart chose to forgo his usual comedic opening monologue on "The Daily Show." Expressing profound sadness and acknowledging the racial injustices prevalent in America, he dedicated a significant portion of the episode to a conversation with guest Malala Yousafzai.
July 2015: Public Disclosure of Disagreement with Wyatt Cenac
Details of Stewart's disagreement with Wyatt Cenac about a 2011 segment were made public in July 2015.
July 28, 2015: Report on Jon Stewart's White House Meetings
On July 28, 2015, Politico published an article by Darren Samuelsohn revealing Jon Stewart's previously undisclosed meetings with President Obama in October 2011 and February 2014.
August 5, 2015: Louis C.K. as Jon Stewart's Final Daily Show Guest
On August 5, 2015, Jon Stewart welcomed his longtime friend of 30 years, comedian Louis C.K., as the final guest on "The Daily Show" before his departure.
August 6, 2015: Jon Stewart's Final Daily Show
August 6, 2015, marked Jon Stewart's last episode as the host of "The Daily Show."
August 23, 2015: Stewart's WWE Debut at SummerSlam
On August 23, 2015, Jon Stewart made a surprising appearance at WWE's SummerSlam event in Brooklyn, New York, getting involved in the main event and helping Seth Rollins retain his championship title.
November 2015: Jon Stewart Signs Four-Year Deal with HBO
In November 2015, Jon Stewart inked a four-year agreement with HBO to develop exclusive digital content for their platforms, including HBO NOW and HBO Go. The project, envisioned as an animated parody of a cable news network with an "Onion-like" portal, aimed to provide Stewart with a new avenue for his satirical commentary.
2015: Jon Stewart Departs "The Daily Show"
After 16 years at the helm, Jon Stewart departed from "The Daily Show" in 2015.
2015: Trevor Noah Takes Over The Daily Show
Trevor Noah permanently took over as host of "The Daily Show" in 2015, succeeding Jon Stewart.
2015: Final Emmy Wins for Jon Stewart's The Daily Show
In 2015, The Daily Show, under Jon Stewart's leadership, won its final Emmys for Outstanding Writing and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series, marking Stewart's departure as host.
2015: Stewart Reunites with 9/11 First Responders, Highlighting Deteriorating Health
In 2015, Jon Stewart, after leaving The Daily Show, reunited with the 9/11 first responders he interviewed in 2010. Sadly, only one was healthy enough to attend, highlighting the devastating impact of that day.
2015: Jon Stewart Discusses Relationship with His Father
In 2015, Jon Stewart described his relationship with his father, who had passed away two years prior, as "still complicated".
2015: Adoption of a Vegetarian and Vegan Diet
In 2015, Jon Stewart adopted a vegetarian diet for ethical reasons, later transitioning to a vegan diet, influenced by his wife's long-time veganism.
August 21, 2016: Stewart Returns to WWE SummerSlam
Jon Stewart returned as a special guest at WWE SummerSlam on August 21, 2016.
2016: Delays and Cancellation of Jon Stewart's HBO Project
Initially slated for a fall 2016 premiere, Jon Stewart's HBO project encountered multiple delays, pushing its release to the first quarter of 2017. However, the project was ultimately canceled, as confirmed by HBO's statement on May 23, 2017.
2016: Third Peabody Award for The Daily Show
In 2016, Jon Stewart received his third Peabody Award for his tenure at The Daily Show, marking another milestone in his career.
2016: "The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore" Concludes
"The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore", executive produced by Jon Stewart, concluded in 2016.
2016: Stewart Honors Military Families with the Obamas
In 2016, Jon Stewart joined President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama, Vice President Joe Biden and Jill Biden, and David Letterman to honor military families at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland for the USO's 75th anniversary and the fifth anniversary of Joining Forces.
May 23, 2017: Cancellation of Jon Stewart's HBO Animated Project
On May 23, 2017, HBO announced the cancellation of Jon Stewart's planned animated parody of a cable news network. Despite its potential, the project faced insurmountable technical challenges related to production and distribution, particularly given the fast-paced and topical nature of the material.
June 2017: Stewart Speaks at Funeral of 9/11 First Responder
Jon Stewart delivered a moving speech at the funeral of Ray Pfeifer in June 2017. Pfeifer, an FDNY firefighter, passed away after an eight-year battle with cancer stemming from his service during the September 11 attacks.
July 2017: HBO Announces Jon Stewart Stand-Up Special
In July 2017, HBO revealed plans for Jon Stewart to produce a stand-up comedy special for the network. This marked Stewart's return to the stand-up stage since his 1996 special. However, the special was not ultimately released.
2018: Jon Stewart's Comedy Tour and Stand-Up Appearances
In 2018, Jon Stewart embarked on a collaborative comedy tour across the United States and the United Kingdom with fellow comedian Dave Chappelle. Additionally, he graced the stage at the 13th Annual Standup for Heroes event, performing alongside John Oliver and Hasan Minhaj.
June 2019: Stewart Testifies Before Congress for 9/11 First Responders Fund
In a powerful display of advocacy, Jon Stewart delivered an emotional testimony before Congress in June 2019, urging them to remove the cap on the 9/11 first responders fund and ensure their long-term care.
July 12, 2019: House Approves Permanent Funding for 9/11 First Responders Fund
On July 12, 2019, largely due to Jon Stewart's tireless campaigning, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly voted to approve permanent funding for the 9/11 first responders fund, marking a significant victory for the ailing heroes.
December 16, 2019: Bronze Medallion for Advocacy
On December 16, 2019, Jon Stewart was awarded the Bronze Medallion, New York City's highest civilian honor, for his advocacy on behalf of 9/11 victims and families.
2019: Jon Stewart Awarded the Bronze Medallion
Jon Stewart was honored with the New York City Bronze Medallion in 2019 for his advocacy for 9/11 first responders.
June 2020: Release of "Irresistible," Directed by Jon Stewart
Jon Stewart's directorial venture into political satire, "Irresistible," hit theaters in June 2020. The film features Steve Carell, an alumnus of "The Daily Show," as a disheartened Democratic strategist who throws his support behind a retired veteran, portrayed by Chris Cooper, in his bid for mayor in a small, predominantly blue-collar town in Wisconsin.
December 2020: Deadline for 9/11 First Responders Fund Payouts
December 2020 marked the deadline for the existing payout limits of the 9/11 first responders fund, further emphasizing the urgency of Jon Stewart's advocacy efforts for permanent funding.
2020: Stewart Expresses Support for Sanders and Warren During Primaries
During the 2020 Democratic Party presidential primaries, Jon Stewart revealed he wasn't a Joe Biden supporter, instead favoring Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren.
September 30, 2021: Premiere of "The Problem with Jon Stewart" on Apple TV+
Jon Stewart's new venture, "The Problem with Jon Stewart," premiered on Apple TV+ on September 30, 2021. The series featured hour-long episodes, each delving into a single topic. Stewart served as both host and executive producer, contributing his signature blend of satire and social commentary. However, the show was later canceled after two seasons, reportedly due to disagreements with Apple executives regarding coverage of China and artificial intelligence.
2021: Jon Stewart Launches "The Problem with Jon Stewart"
Jon Stewart debuted his new show, "The Problem with Jon Stewart", on Apple TV+ in 2021.
March 3, 2022: House Passes PACT Act
The House of Representatives passed the Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2021, or PACT Act, on March 3, 2022. This bill aimed to provide healthcare for veterans affected by burn pits.
April 24, 2022: Mark Twain Prize for American Humor
On April 24, 2022, Jon Stewart was awarded the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., recognizing his lifelong contribution to comedy.
June 16, 2022: Senate Passes PACT Act
The Senate passed the PACT Act on June 16, 2022, a significant step towards providing healthcare for veterans exposed to toxic burn pits, a cause championed by Jon Stewart.
July 2022: Jon Stewart Responds to Presidential Run Suggestion
In July 2022, Politico published an op-ed by Juleanna Glover suggesting Jon Stewart as a potential Democratic presidential candidate for 2024. Stewart swiftly dismissed the idea with a succinct tweet: "ummm... no thank you."
July 28, 2022: Stewart Holds Press Conference on PACT Act
On July 28, 2022, Jon Stewart held a press conference on Capitol Hill to advocate for the passage of the PACT Act, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to supporting veterans' healthcare.
August 2, 2022: Passing of the PACT Act
On August 2, 2022, the PACT Act passed in a bipartisan measure, 84 to 11. Jon Stewart was praised for his significant role in advocating for the bill, which aims to provide healthcare and benefits to veterans exposed to toxic substances. Stewart expressed relief over the bill's passing but noted that it should not have been a difficult process.
December 2022: Money Changemaker
In December 2022, Jon Stewart was named a Money Changemaker by Money.com, acknowledging his influence and contributions to various causes.
2022: Jon Stewart Receives the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor
In recognition of his comedic impact, Jon Stewart was awarded the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2022.
2023: Artists4Ceasefire Open Letter
In 2023, Jon Stewart, together with other media figures, signed the Artists4Ceasefire open letter. The letter urged President Joe Biden to call for a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel–Hamas war, criticizing Israel for its actions in the Palestinian territories.
2023: Stewart Criticizes Biden's Handling of Israel-Hamas War
Jon Stewart has been critical of President Biden's age and his response to the 2023 Israel-Hamas War, despite reluctantly supporting his 2020 candidacy.
2023: Jon Stewart Performs at Netflix is a Joke Festival
Jon Stewart took the stage at the Netflix is a Joke comedy festival in Los Angeles in 2023.
2023: "The Problem with Jon Stewart" Concludes
Jon Stewart's show on Apple TV+, "The Problem with Jon Stewart", concluded in 2023.
January 2024: Jon Stewart Confirmed as Guest Host and Executive Producer for "The Daily Show"
In January 2024, it was announced that Jon Stewart would return to "The Daily Show" as a weekly guest host on Mondays, commencing February 12, 2024. Additionally, Stewart and his manager, James Dixon, assumed roles as executive producers for all "Daily Show" episodes throughout 2025.
February 12, 2024: Jon Stewart Returns to "The Daily Show" as Guest Host
Jon Stewart made his return to "The Daily Show" as the weekly Monday guest host starting February 12, 2024.
February 2024: Jon Stewart returns to "The Daily Show"
Jon Stewart returned to "The Daily Show" in February 2024 to host Monday episodes and serve as an executive producer.
April 2024: Apple's Restriction on Interview
In April 2024, Jon Stewart claimed that Apple restricted him from interviewing Lina Khan, the Chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), on his podcast. This incident comes amid the U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit against Apple for alleged anti-competitive practices, raising concerns about Apple's influence over content creation and free speech.
May 2024: Jon Stewart to Host "The Weekly Show" Podcast
May 2024 brought the news that Jon Stewart would expand his repertoire by hosting "The Weekly Show," an original podcast produced by Comedy Central.
2024: Jon Stewart Returns to "The Daily Show"
Jon Stewart returned to host "The Daily Show" in 2024 after a nine-year hiatus.
2024: Potential Presidential Run
Juleanna Glover suggested that Jon Stewart should run for president in 2024.
2025: Jon Stewart's Executive Producer Role on "The Daily Show"
Jon Stewart and his manager, James Dixon, will serve as executive producers for all episodes of "The Daily Show" until 2025.
2092: 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Secured Until 2092
After a long fight, the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund was secured until 2092, effectively providing lifetime healthcare for the victims and first responders of the 9/11 attacks.