After several years of absence, Jon Stewart is set to make a notable return to “The Daily Show,” as confirmed by NBC News. Stewart, renowned for his incisive wit and political commentary, will reprise his role as the host of the show, a position he held from 1996 to 2015. This announcement marks a significant moment for the show and its audience, following a period of uncertainty after Trevor Noah’s departure in 2022.

The Transition After Trevor Noah

The search for a replacement host has been ongoing since Trevor Noah, who succeeded Stewart in 2015, left the show. Noah’s tenure was marked by success, including an Emmy win for best variety talk series. Stewart’s return is set to bring a familiar and acclaimed style back to the show. He will host Monday nights through the 2024 election, thereafter continuing his involvement as executive producer.

The Impact of Stewart’s Return

Chris McCarthy, president and CEO of MTV Entertainment Studios, has praised Stewart as “the voice of our generation,” highlighting his ability to address complex political and social issues with humor and insight. Stewart’s previous tenure at “The Daily Show” saw him emerge as a significant figure in left-leaning political satire, targeting various political figures and administrations with his unique brand of humor.

Stewart’s Journey and Activism

Following his departure from “The Daily Show” in 2015, Jon Stewart took on a more activist role, fervently advocating for veterans and 9/11 responders. His return to media was marked by “The Problem with Jon Stewart” on Apple TV+, a series focusing on current events and societal issues. This comeback to “The Daily Show” is Stewart’s most high-profile media appearance since then.

The news of Jon Stewart’s return has been met with a mix of excitement and skepticism. Prominent figures like Trevor Noah and John Oliver have expressed their enthusiasm, while others, like A.J. Bauer, an assistant professor at the University of Alabama, question the impact of Stewart’s style in the current fragmented media landscape.