History of Jon Stewart in Timeline
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, producer, director, political commentator, actor, and television host, best known for hosting 'The Daily Show' on Comedy Central from 1999 to 2015 and part-time since 2024. His satirical commentary on news and politics has garnered him widespread recognition and influence. He also hosted 'The Problem with Jon Stewart' on Apple TV+ from 2021 to 2023. Stewart's work has earned him numerous awards, including 24 Primetime Emmy Awards, 2 Grammy Awards, 5 Peabody Awards, the Bronze Medallion in 2019, and the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2022, solidifying his status as a significant figure in American comedy and political commentary.
1931: Father Donald Leibowitz Born
In 1931, Jon Stewart's father, Donald Leibowitz, was born. He later became an energy coordinator for the New Jersey Department of the Treasury.
November 28, 1962: Jon Stewart Born
On November 28, 1962, Jonathan Stuart Leibowitz, known professionally as Jon Stewart, was born. He would later become a comedian, writer, producer, director, political commentator, actor, and television host.
1971: Start of Al Albert's Coaching Career
In 1971, Al Albert became the head coach of the Tribe men's soccer team
1980: Graduates from Lawrence High School
In 1980, Jon Stewart graduated from Lawrence High School and subsequently attended the College of William & Mary.
1981: Three-Year Starter
In 1981, Jon Stewart became a three-year starter in William & Mary's Tribe men's soccer team
1982: Three-Year Starter
In 1982, Jon Stewart became a three-year starter in William & Mary's Tribe men's soccer team
1983: Three-Year Starter
In 1983, Jon Stewart became a three-year starter in William & Mary's Tribe men's soccer team
1984: Graduates from William & Mary
In 1984, Jon Stewart graduated from the College of William & Mary with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
1986: Moves Back to New York City
In 1986, Jon Stewart moved back to New York City to pursue a career in comedy.
1988: Stewart voted for George H.W. Bush
In 1988, Jon Stewart voted for Republican George H. W. Bush in the presidential election. It was the last time he voted for a Republican.
1989: Writer for Caroline's Comedy Hour
In 1989, Jon Stewart landed his first television job as a writer for Caroline's Comedy Hour.
1990: Co-Hosting Short Attention Span Theater
In 1990, Jon Stewart began co-hosting Comedy Central's "Short Attention Span Theater" with Patty Rosborough.
March 6, 1992: Appearance on Late Night with David Letterman
On March 6, 1992, Jon Stewart appeared on NBC's "Late Night with David Letterman", which he credits as the start of his career.
1992: Hosting You Wrote It, You Watch It
In 1992, Jon Stewart hosted "You Wrote It, You Watch It" on MTV.
1993: Developed The Jon Stewart Show
In 1993, Jon Stewart developed "The Jon Stewart Show", a talk show on MTV.
1994: Syndication of The Jon Stewart Show
In 1994, after "The Arsenio Hall Show" was canceled, an hour-long syndicated late-night version of "The Jon Stewart Show" was launched.
June 1995: Cancellation of The Jon Stewart Show
In June 1995, "The Jon Stewart Show" was canceled due to dismal ratings.
1995: The Jon Stewart Show Ends
In 1995, "The Jon Stewart Show" was retooled, dropped by MTV, and moved to syndication.
1995: Stewart's Blind Date with Tracey Lynn McShane
In 1995, Jon Stewart had a blind date with Tracey Lynn McShane that was arranged by a production assistant on Wishful Thinking.
1995: Signs Deal with Miramax
In 1995, Jon Stewart signed a three-year deal with Miramax.
October 6, 1996: Premiere of Where's Elvis This Week?
On October 6, 1996, "Where's Elvis This Week?", a half-hour, weekly comedy television program hosted by Jon Stewart, premiered in the UK on BBC Two.
1996: Stewart's last stand-up special before 2017 announcement
In 1996, it was Jon Stewart's last stand-up special before the announcement from HBO in 2017 that he would produce a new one. However, this special ultimately did not air.
1997: Host and Interviewer for George Carlin HBO Special
In 1997, Jon Stewart was chosen as the host and interviewer for George Carlin's tenth HBO special, "George Carlin: 40 Years of Comedy."
1998: Hosts Elmopalooza & Releases Naked Pictures of Famous People
In 1998, Jon Stewart hosted the television special, "Elmopalooza", and released his first book, "Naked Pictures of Famous People".
January 11, 1999: First Daily Show On-Air Appearance
On January 11, 1999, Jon Stewart made his first Daily Show on-air appearance, telling his guest Michael J. Fox that he felt as if "this is my bar mitzvah".
1999: Start of The Daily Show
In 1999, Jon Stewart became the host of The Daily Show on Comedy Central.
2000: The Daily Show Receives Peabody Award for "Indecision 2000"
In 2000, Jon Stewart and other members of The Daily Show received a Peabody Award for "Indecision 2000", covering the 2000 presidential election.
2000: Stewart describes political affiliation
In 2000, Jon Stewart described his political affiliation as more socialist or independent rather than Democrat.
2000: Stewart Marries Tracey Lynn McShane
In 2000, Jon Stewart married Tracey Lynn McShane.
2000: Peabody Award for US presidential election coverage
In 2000, The Daily Show won a Peabody Award for its coverage of the US presidential election, called "Indecision 2000".
June 19, 2001: Jon Stewart Changes Surname
On June 19, 2001, Jon Stewart and his wife, Tracey Lynn McShane, legally changed their surnames to "Stewart".
September 11, 2001: Attacks of September 11
On September 11, 2001, the attacks of September 11, 2001 occurred. The first show after the attacks of September 11, 2001, began with no introduction.
September 20, 2001: First show after 9/11 attacks
On September 20, 2001, The Daily Show aired its first episode after the September 11, 2001 attacks. The show began without an introduction and featured a tearful Jon Stewart discussing his personal view on the tragic event.
2001: Surname Legally Changed to Stewart
In 2001, Jon Stewart had his surname legally changed to "Stewart".
2001: Stewart Hosted the Grammy Awards
In 2001, Jon Stewart hosted the Grammy Awards for the first time.
2001: The Daily Show Wins Primetime Emmy Award
In 2001, The Daily Show received the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program.
2002: Appears in Death to Smoochy
In 2002, Jon Stewart appeared in the film "Death to Smoochy."
2002: Stewart Hosted the Grammy Awards
In 2002, Jon Stewart hosted the Grammy Awards for the second time.
2002: Busboy Productions Planned Sitcom for NBC Starring Stephen Colbert
In 2002, Jon Stewart's production company, Busboy Productions, planned to produce a sitcom for NBC starring Stephen Colbert, but the show did not come to fruition.
2002: ABC offers Stewart a talk show
In late 2002, ABC offered Jon Stewart his own talk show to air after Nightline. Stewart was interested, but ABC chose Jimmy Kimmel instead.
2002: Rumors of Stewart replacing David Letterman
In mid-2002, amidst rumors that David Letterman might switch from CBS to ABC, Jon Stewart was rumored to be a potential replacement for Letterman on CBS. However, Letterman ultimately renewed his contract with CBS.
December 2003: Stewart Named "Who's Next?" by Newsweek
In December 2003, Jon Stewart was named the "Who's Next?" person for 2004 by Newsweek magazine, with the magazine predicting he would emerge as an absolute sensation in that year.
2003: End of Al Albert's Coaching Career
In 2003, Al Albert ceased to be the head coach of the Tribe men's soccer team
2003: The Daily Show Wins Two Primetime Emmy Awards
In 2003, 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.
October 15, 2004: Stewart Criticizes Crossfire on CNN
On October 15, 2004, Jon Stewart appeared on CNN's Crossfire and criticized the state of television journalism, urging the hosts to 'stop hurting America' and referring to them as 'partisan hacks.'
2004: Newsweek Claims Correct Prediction
At the end of 2004, Newsweek magazine claimed that they had been correct in their previous prediction that Jon Stewart would emerge as an absolute sensation in that year.
2004: Release of "America (The Book)"
In 2004, Jon Stewart and The Daily Show writing staff released "America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction", a satirical textbook that became a top-fifteen best seller that year. He also delivered the commencement address at the College of William & Mary.
2004: The Daily Show Receives Peabody Award for "Indecision 2004"
In 2004, Jon Stewart and other members of The Daily Show received a Peabody Award for "Indecision 2004", covering the 2004 presidential election.
2004: Stewart's Crossfire Criticism
In 2004, Jon Stewart criticized Crossfire hosts for partisan hackery and failing to inform viewers about serious political topics. He also defended his interview style with John Kerry.
2004: Commencement speaker and honorary degree at William & Mary
In 2004, Jon Stewart spoke at the commencement ceremonies at his alma mater, William & Mary, and received an honorary Doctor of Arts degree. He was also the Class Day keynote speaker at Princeton University in 2004.
2004: Peabody Award for US presidential election coverage
In 2004, The Daily Show won a Peabody Award for its coverage of the US presidential election, called "Indecision 2004".
2004: The Daily Show Wins Two Primetime Emmy Awards
In 2004, 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.
January 2005: CNN Cancels Crossfire
In January 2005, CNN announced the cancellation of Crossfire. Jonathan Klein, CNN's incoming president, referenced Jon Stewart's appearance on the show as a factor in the decision, citing the 'noise level' of the show.
2005: Comedy Central backs Busboy Productions
In 2005, Comedy Central and Jon Stewart's Busboy Productions reached an agreement in which Comedy Central would provide financial backing for the production company.
2005: 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: Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album
In 2005, Jon Stewart and The Daily Show won the Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album for the audiobook edition of "America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction".
2005: Executive Produces The Colbert Report
In 2005, Jon Stewart became the executive producer of "The Colbert Report".
2005: Voice of President James A. Garfield
In 2005, Jon Stewart voiced President James A. Garfield for the audiobook version of Sarah Vowell's "Assassination Vacation".
2005: Stewart Named Among Time 100
In 2005, Jon Stewart was named among the Time 100, an annual list of 100 of the most influential people of the year by Time magazine.
2005: The Daily Show Wins Two Primetime Emmy Awards
In 2005, 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. In 2005, Stewart won the Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album for his recording, America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction.
March 5, 2006: Stewart Hosts the 78th Academy Awards
On March 5, 2006, Jon Stewart hosted the 78th Academy Awards at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. Critical reception to his performance was mixed.
April 4, 2006: Stewart confronts John McCain on The Daily Show
On April 4, 2006, Jon Stewart confronted US Senator John McCain on The Daily Show about his decision to appear at Liberty University, an institution founded by Jerry Falwell, whom McCain had previously denounced.
2006: Honorary All-America Award
In 2006, Jon Stewart was presented an Honorary All-America Award by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA).
2006: The Daily Show Wins Primetime Emmy Award
In 2006, The Daily Show received the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series.
2007: Cameo Appearance in Evan Almighty
In 2007, Jon Stewart made a cameo appearance as himself in Evan Almighty, which starred former Daily Show correspondent Steve Carell.
2007: Stewart Supports Writers Guild of America Strike
In 2007, Jon Stewart supported the 2007–2008 Writers Guild of America strike. On The Daily Show episode just before the strike, he sarcastically commented about how Comedy Central had made available all episodes for free on their website, but without advertising, and said, "go support our advertisers".
2007: Voice of Mort Sinclaire in audiobook
In 2007, Jon Stewart voiced Mort Sinclaire, a former TV comedy writer and communist, on Stephen Colbert's audiobook version of "I Am America (And So Can You!)".
2007: Hannity supports Nugent's violent rhetoric toward Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton in 2007
In 2007, Sean Hannity supported Ted Nugent's violent rhetoric toward Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.
2007: The Daily Show involved in Stephen Colbert's presidential announcement
In 2007, The Daily Show was involved in former correspondent Stephen Colbert's announcement that he would run for president in 2008.
2007: The Writers Guild Strike of 2007 triggers mock feud
The Writers Guild Strike of 2007–2008 triggered a notable mock feud between Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, and Conan O'Brien . Without writers to help fuel their banter, the three comedians concocted a crossover/rivalry to garner more viewers during the ratings slump.
January 7, 2008: Stewart Refuses to Use "The Daily Show" Title
On January 7, 2008, upon Jon Stewart's return to the show following the start of the Writers Guild of America strike, he refused to use the title, The Daily Show, stating that The Daily Show was the show made with all of the people responsible for the broadcast, including his writers. During the strike, he referred to his show as A Daily Show with Jon Stewart.
February 13, 2008: The Daily Show title restored after Writer's Strike End
On February 13, 2008, the Writer's Strike ended and the title, The Daily Show, was restored to Jon Stewart's show.
February 24, 2008: Stewart Hosts the 80th Academy Awards
On February 24, 2008, Jon Stewart hosted the 80th Academy Awards. The reception to his performance was more positive than when he hosted in 2006.
2008: Stewart appears on Democracy Now!
In 2008, Jon Stewart appeared on the news program Democracy Now!. A New York Times story questioned whether he was, "the most trusted man in America".
2008: Sacerdote Great Names speaker at Hamilton College
In 2008, Jon Stewart was the Sacerdote Great Names speaker at Hamilton College.
2008: Stewart's Earnings
In 2008, according to Forbes, Jon Stewart was earning $14 million a year.
2008: Feud Ends with Mock Brawl
In early 2008, a three-part comedic battle among Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert and Conan O'Brien resulted in all three appearing on each other's shows, ending on Late Night with Conan O'Brien with a mock brawl involving the three hosts.
March 4, 2009: CNBC Cancels Rick Santelli's Appearance on The Daily Show
On March 4, 2009, CNBC cancelled Rick Santelli's scheduled appearance on The Daily Show, leading the show to run a segment showcasing CNBC's poor investment advice.
March 2009: Stewart Criticizes White House Proposal on Veterans
In March 2009, Jon Stewart criticized a White House proposal to remove veterans from Veterans Administration rolls if they had private health insurance, leading to the White House dropping the plan the next day.
March 18, 2009: Carlson Criticizes Stewart's Handling of CNBC Controversy
On March 18, 2009, Tucker Carlson criticized Jon Stewart's handling of the CNBC controversy in a blog post. Carlson also recounted Stewart lecturing Crossfire staff backstage after his appearance in 2004.
April 21, 2009: Made a chief in Liberia
On April 21, 2009, the President of Liberia, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, made Jon Stewart a chief.
April 28, 2009: Stewart calls Truman a war criminal, then apologizes
On April 28, 2009, Jon Stewart stated that former President Harry S. Truman was a war criminal for his use of the atomic bomb on Japan during World War II. On April 30, he apologized on his program, stating he did not believe that to be the case.
November 2009: Stewart Criticizes Fox News for Misleading Footage
In November 2009, Jon Stewart criticized Fox News for using footage from a previous Tea Party rally during a report on a more recent rally, which made the latter event appear more highly attended than it actually was. The show's anchor, Sean Hannity, apologized for the footage use the following night.
December 2009: Stewart Gives Speech Honoring Bruce Springsteen
In December 2009, Jon Stewart delivered a speech at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts honoring Bruce Springsteen as a Kennedy Center Honors recipient.
2009: The Daily Show Wins Primetime Emmy Award
In 2009, The Daily Show received the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series.
2009: Confrontation Between Stewart and Cramer on The Daily Show
In 2009, exchanges between Jon Stewart and Jim Cramer led to a highly anticipated face-to-face confrontation on The Daily Show. The episode received significant media attention and became one of the most-viewed episodes of The Daily Show.
March 2010: Stewart options story of Maziar Bahari
In March 2010, Jon Stewart announced that he had optioned the rights to the story of journalist Maziar Bahari, who was imprisoned in Iran for 118 days.
April 2010: Comedy Central renews Stewart's contract
In April 2010, Comedy Central renewed Jon Stewart's contract to host The Daily Show into 2013.
September 16, 2010: Rally to Restore Sanity and/or Fear announced
On September 16, 2010, Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert announced a rally for October 30, known as the Rally to Restore Sanity and/or Fear, to take place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
October 26, 2010: Most Influential Man of 2010
On October 26, 2010, Jon Stewart was named the Most Influential Man of 2010 by AskMen.
December 2010: Stewart credited for raising awareness of the Zadroga Act
In December 2010, Jon Stewart was credited by the White House and media for bringing awareness to the Republican filibuster on the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, leading to its passing.
2010: Increased Criticism of Fox News
In 2010, Jon Stewart intensified his criticism of Fox News, dedicating 24 segments of The Daily Show to the network's coverage within a five-month period. Bill O'Reilly from Fox News' The O'Reilly Factor, responded by labeling The Daily Show as a "key component of left-wing television".
2010: Stewart Interviews 9/11 First Responders on The Daily Show
In 2010, Jon Stewart interviewed a panel of four 9/11 first responders—Kenny Specht, Chris Bowman, Ken George and Kevin Devlin—on The Daily Show, discussing their health problems.
2010: Hannity criticizes Stewart associating himself with Cat Stevens at the rally in 2010
In 2010, Sean Hannity criticized Jon Stewart for associating himself with Cat Stevens during his Rally.
January 10, 2011: Stewart comments on Tucson shootings
On January 10, 2011, Jon Stewart began The Daily Show with a monologue about the shootings in Tucson, Arizona, expressing his wish that the "ramblings of crazy people didn't in any way resemble how we actually talk to each other on television".
June 6, 2011: Stewart hosts Maziar Bahari on The Daily Show
On June 6, 2011, Jon Stewart hosted Maziar Bahari on The Daily Show.
June 2011: Uncomfortable Daily Show bit about Herman Cain
In June 2011, The Daily Show ran a bit about Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain that made writer Wyatt Cenac uncomfortable, which he acknowledged to Jon Stewart. (reported in July 2015)
June 19, 2011: Stewart and Chris Wallace Clash Over Political Commentary
On June 19, 2011, during an interview with Chris Wallace, Jon Stewart called Wallace "insane" for interpreting Stewart's comparison of a Sarah Palin campaign video and an anti-herpes medicine ad as a political statement. Stewart also claimed that Fox News viewers were the "most consistently misinformed", a statement later fact-checked and deemed false with conditions. Stewart later acknowledged his error.
October 2011: Stewart meets with President Obama at the White House
In October 2011, Jon Stewart met with President Obama at the White House. It was a previously unreported meeting with President Obama.
2011: The Daily Show Wins Primetime Emmy Award
In 2011, The Daily Show received the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series.
March 2012: Stewart interviews Bruce Springsteen
In March 2012, Jon Stewart interviewed Bruce Springsteen for Rolling Stone.
June 1, 2012: Stewart Attends Mets No-Hitter
On June 1, 2012, Jon Stewart was in attendance when Johan Santana threw the first no-hitter in New York Mets franchise history.
2012: The Daily Show Wins Primetime Emmy Award
In 2012, The Daily Show received the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series.
February 2013: Stewart Pays Tribute to Bruce Springsteen at MusiCares
In February 2013, Jon Stewart gave another speech paying tribute to Bruce Springsteen as part of the singer's MusiCares Person of the Year award ceremony.
March 2013: Stewart leaves The Daily Show to direct Rosewater
In March 2013, Jon Stewart announced that he was leaving The Daily Show for 12 weeks to direct the film version of Maziar Bahari's 2011 book, Then They Came For Me. Stewart's screenplay adaptation is entitled, Rosewater.
March 2013: Stewart takes hiatus to direct Rosewater
In March 2013, Jon Stewart took a 12-week hiatus from The Daily Show to direct the film "Rosewater", based on the book "Then They Came for Me" by Maziar Bahari.
June 10, 2013: John Oliver assumes Daily Show hosting duties
Beginning June 10, 2013, John Oliver assumed primary hosting duties for The Daily Show during Jon Stewart's break.
2013: John Oliver hosts The Daily Show during the summer
During the summer of 2013, John Oliver filled in as host of The Daily Show for a period, while Jon Stewart was away.
2013: Stewart Buys Bufflehead Farm
In 2013, Jon Stewart and his wife bought a 12-acre (4.9 ha) farm in Middletown, New Jersey, called "Bufflehead Farm", which they operate as a sanctuary for abused animals.
2013: Death of Father, Donald Leibowitz
In 2013, Jon Stewart's father, Donald Leibowitz, passed away.
2013: The Colbert Report Wins Primetime Emmy Awards
In 2013, the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series went to The Daily Show spin-off The Colbert Report.
2013: Contract Renewal
In April 2010, Comedy Central renewed Jon Stewart's contract to host The Daily Show into 2013.
February 2014: Stewart meets with President Obama at the White House
In February 2014, Jon Stewart met with President Obama at the White House. It was a previously unreported meeting with President Obama.
July 14, 2014: Stewart interviews Hillary Clinton about the Middle East
On July 14, 2014, Jon Stewart interviewed Hillary Clinton on The Daily Show about the Middle East. He questioned her condemnations of Hamas and their resistance in Gaza.
August 2014: Stewart Criticizes Fox News' Coverage of Michael Brown Shooting
In late August 2014, Jon Stewart criticized Fox News for its portrayal of the events surrounding the shooting of teenager Michael Brown by police officer Darren Wilson in Ferguson, Missouri, and the subsequent protests.
September 2014: Rosewater premieres at Toronto International Film Festival
In September 2014, the film Rosewater, directed by Jon Stewart, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, receiving "generally favorable" reviews.
November 14, 2014: Rosewater released to general audiences
On November 14, 2014, Jon Stewart's film Rosewater was released to general audiences.
2014: The Colbert Report Ends
In 2014, Jon Stewart ceased being the executive producer of "The Colbert Report".
February 10, 2015: Stewart announces his departure from The Daily Show
On February 10, 2015, Jon Stewart announced during a taping of The Daily Show that he was leaving the show. Comedy Central confirmed Stewart's retirement.
March 2015: Stewart's Comedic Feud with Seth Rollins
In March 2015, Jon Stewart began a comedic feud with WWE wrestler Seth Rollins and appeared on WWE Raw during a Daily Show-styled segment hosted by Rollins.
April 20, 2015: Stewart announces final show date
On April 20, 2015, Jon Stewart indicated that his final show as host of The Daily Show would be on August 6, 2015.
June 19, 2015: Stewart addresses Charleston Church Shooting with sadness
On June 19, 2015, following the Charleston Church Shooting, Jon Stewart decided not to write jokes for the opening monologue of The Daily Show, expressing sadness and discussing racial disparity and injustices in America. He then designated a large portion of the show to his guest, Malala Yousafzai.
July 2015: Cenac says Stewart cursed him out after Daily Show bit
In July 2015, writer Wyatt Cenac said that Jon Stewart cursed him out after Cenac acknowledged he was uncomfortable about a June 2011 Daily Show bit about Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain.
July 28, 2015: Report on Stewart's unreported White House meetings
On July 28, 2015, it was reported that Jon Stewart had been at the White House for previously unreported meetings with President Obama twice: once in October 2011 and once in February 2014.
August 5, 2015: Louis C.K. is final Daily Show guest
On August 5, 2015, comedian Louis C.K., a friend of Jon Stewart for 30 years, was selected to be the last guest before the final Daily Show episode with Stewart helming the show.
August 6, 2015: Stewart's final Daily Show
On April 20, 2015, Jon Stewart indicated that his final show as host of The Daily Show would be on August 6, 2015.
August 23, 2015: Stewart Hosts WWE SummerSlam and Interferes in Main Event
On August 23, 2015, Jon Stewart hosted WWE's SummerSlam and interfered in the main event between Seth Rollins and John Cena, helping Rollins retain his WWE World Heavyweight Championship and win Cena's United States Championship by hitting Cena with a steel chair.
November 2015: Jon Stewart Signs Deal with HBO
In November 2015, Jon Stewart signed a four-year deal with HBO to create exclusive digital content for HBO NOW, HBO Go, and other platforms. The project involved an animated parody of a cable news network, similar to The Onion.
2015: Stewart Takes Up Drum Playing
After leaving The Daily Show in 2015, Jon Stewart took up playing the drums and has been taking drum lessons from New Jersey–based drum teacher Andy Bova.
2015: Stewart Adopts Vegetarian Diet
In 2015, Jon Stewart adopted a vegetarian diet for ethical reasons and later became vegan.
2015: Executive Produces The Nightly Show
In 2015, Jon Stewart became the executive producer of "The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore" and also began executive producing "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert".
2015: Relationship with Father Described as Still Complicated
In 2015, Jon Stewart described his relationship with his father as "still complicated" after his father's death two years earlier.
2015: End of The Daily Show Hosting
In 2015, Jon Stewart ended his run as the host of The Daily Show on Comedy Central.
2015: The Daily Show Wins Two Primetime Emmy Awards
In 2015, The Daily Show received the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program and Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Series for Stewart's last show as host.
2015: Trevor Noah takes over The Daily Show
In 2015, Trevor Noah permanently took over hosting duties for The Daily Show, succeeding Jon Stewart who had hosted almost all airings until then.
2015: Stewart Reunites 9/11 First Responders
In 2015, four months after leaving The Daily Show, Jon Stewart returned to reunite the four 9/11 first responders, with only Kenny Specht healthy enough to attend. Kevin Devlin had died, and Chris Bowman and Ken George were too ill to make it to the show.
2015: Stewart Jokes about the New York Mets
Shortly before Jon Stewart left the Daily Show in 2015, a compilation played of Stewart's jokes about the New York Mets team during his time on the show.
August 21, 2016: Stewart Returns as Special Guest at SummerSlam
On August 21, 2016, Jon Stewart returned to SummerSlam as a special guest.
2016: The Nightly Show Ends
In 2016, Jon Stewart ceased being the executive producer of "The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore".
2016: Stewart Honors Military Families
In 2016, Jon Stewart joined President Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, Jill Biden, and David Letterman in honoring military families on May 5 at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. The special celebration marked both the USO's 75th anniversary and the fifth anniversary of Joining Forces.
2016: Stewart Receives Peabody Award for Tenure at The Daily Show
In 2016, Jon Stewart received a Peabody Award for his tenure at The Daily Show.
2016: HBO Animated Project Delayed
In 2016, the premiere of Jon Stewart's HBO animated parody project was delayed multiple times, from fall 2016 to the first quarter of 2017.
May 23, 2017: Cancellation of Jon Stewart's HBO Animated Project
On May 23, 2017, HBO cancelled Jon Stewart's short-form digital animated project due to technical issues in production and distribution, despite initially having great potential. HBO announced future projects with Stewart.
June 2017: Stewart Speaks at Funeral for Ray Pfeifer
In June 2017, Jon Stewart spoke at the funeral service for Ray Pfeifer, an FDNY firefighter who died from cancer as a result of his service as a first responder at the September 11 attacks.
July 2017: HBO Announces Stand-Up Special with Stewart
In July 2017, HBO announced that Jon Stewart would produce a stand-up comedy special for the network, marking his first stand-up special since 1996; however, the special never aired.
2018: Stewart and Chappelle Duo Comedy Tour
In 2018, Jon Stewart and Dave Chappelle collaborated for a duo comedy tour that spanned across the United States and the United Kingdom. Stewart also performed standup at the 13th Annual Standup for Heroes event.
June 2019: Stewart Testifies Before Congress for 9/11 First Responders
In June 2019, Jon Stewart went to Congress to oppose the $7.375 billion limit in pay-outs to 9/11 first responders through December 2020 and to lobby for permanent funding for the Victims Compensation Fund past December 2020, delivering a tearful testimony.
July 12, 2019: House Approves 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Bill
On July 12, 2019, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill for the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund with a vote of 402–12.
December 16, 2019: Awarded the Bronze Medallion
On December 16, 2019, Jon Stewart was one of eighteen individuals and organizations awarded the Bronze Medallion for his advocacy on behalf of 9/11 victims and families. The Bronze Medallion is the highest award conferred upon civilians by New York City.
2019: Receives New York City Bronze Medallion
In 2019, Jon Stewart received the New York City Bronze Medallion for his advocacy for 9/11 first responders.
2019: Awarded Bronze Medallion
In 2019, Jon Stewart was honored with the Bronze Medallion.
June 2020: Release of 'Irresistible' Directed by Stewart
In June 2020, 'Irresistible', a political satire directed by Jon Stewart, was released. The film stars Steve Carell as a Democratic strategist and Chris Cooper as a retired veteran running for mayor.
December 2020: Stewart's Testimony for 9/11 First Responders
In June 2019, Jon Stewart testified before Congress to oppose the $7.375 billion limit in pay-outs to 9/11 first responders through December 2020 and to lobby for permanent funding for the Victims Compensation Fund past December 2020.
2020: Stewart supported Joe Biden for President
In 2020, Jon Stewart stated that he was more of a 'Sanders, Warren guy', and supported Joe Biden's candidacy for president.
September 30, 2021: Premiere of 'The Problem with Jon Stewart' on Apple TV+
On September 30, 2021, 'The Problem with Jon Stewart' premiered on Apple TV+. The series featured hour-long episodes focused on single subjects, with Stewart as both host and executive producer through his company, Busboy Productions.
2021: Hosting The Problem with Jon Stewart
In 2021, Jon Stewart began hosting "The Problem with Jon Stewart" on Apple TV+.
March 3, 2022: House of Representatives Passes PACT Act
On March 3, 2022, The House of Representatives passed the bill Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2021 (PACT Act) by 256–174.
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., for his lifelong contribution to the world of comedy.
June 16, 2022: Senate Passes PACT Act
On June 16, 2022, The Senate passed the bill Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2021 (PACT Act) by 84–14.
July 2022: Glover's Op-Ed Calls for Stewart to Run for President
In July 2022, a Politico writer, Juleanna Glover, suggested in an op-ed that Jon Stewart should run for president in 2024. Stewart responded with a tweet rejecting the idea.
July 28, 2022: Stewart Holds Press Conference on Capitol Hill
On July 28, 2022, Jon Stewart held a press conference on Capitol Hill regarding the PACT Act.
August 2, 2022: PACT Act Passes in Bipartisan Measure
On August 2, 2022, the PACT Act passed in a bipartisan measure, 84 to 11. Jon Stewart was praised for lending his voice and celebrity to the issue and is credited as being an essential actor in getting the bill passed.
2022: Mark Twain Prize for American Humor
In 2022, Jon Stewart received the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.
2022: Helps Pass the Honoring our PACT Act
In 2022, Jon Stewart was instrumental in helping pass the Honoring our PACT Act, which expands healthcare access and funding to veterans exposed to toxic substances during their service.
2023: End of The Problem with Jon Stewart
In 2023, Jon Stewart concluded his hosting of "The Problem with Jon Stewart" on Apple TV+.
2023: Stewart Criticizes Joe Biden
In 2023, Jon Stewart criticized Joe Biden over his age and his handling of the Gaza war.
2023: Stewart Performs at Netflix is a Joke Festival
In 2023, Jon Stewart performed at the Netflix is a Joke comedy festival in Los Angeles.
2023: Stewart Signs Artists4Ceasefire Letter
In 2023, Jon Stewart, alongside other media figures, signed the Artists4Ceasefire open letter urging American president Joe Biden to call for a ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza war.
January 2024: Stewart Returns to The Daily Show
In January 2024, it was confirmed that Jon Stewart would return to The Daily Show as the weekly Monday guest host starting February 12, 2024. He also became an executive producer for all episodes through 2025.
February 12, 2024: Stewart's First Show Back at The Daily Show
On February 12, 2024, Jon Stewart started his role as the weekly Monday guest host on The Daily Show.
February 2024: Returns to The Daily Show in February 2024
In February 2024, Jon Stewart returned to "The Daily Show" for Monday episodes and as an executive producer.
April 2024: Stewart Claims Apple Restricted Interview with FTC Chair
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 follows the U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit against Apple for alleged anti-competitive practices in the smartphone market.
May 2024: Stewart to Host 'The Weekly Show' Podcast
In May 2024, it was announced that Jon Stewart would also begin hosting 'The Weekly Show', an original podcast from Comedy Central. Additionally, Stewart and The Daily Show team won the Primetime Emmy Award for Best Talk Series.
2024: Returns to The Daily Show
In 2024, Jon Stewart returned to The Daily Show part-time.
2024: Glover suggests Stewart should run for president
In 2024, Juleanna Glover wrote an op-ed suggesting that Jon Stewart should run for president. Stewart declined.
2025: Stewart Extends Contract with The Daily Show
In 2025, Jon Stewart extended his contract by one year to remain host of The Daily Show until the end of 2026.
2026: Stewart Continues to Host The Daily Show
In 2026, Jon Stewart continued to host The Daily Show, having extended his contract the previous year.
2092: Stewart Advocates for 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund
In July 2019, a bill passed to fund health care for 9/11 victims and first responders through 2092, virtually funding health care for 9/11 victims and first responders for life.
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