Since Jon Stewart left The Daily Show last August, his only high profile gig was his turn as the host of WWE’s SummerSlam. That is about to change, big time.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Stewart has signed a four year pact with HBO which will primarily deal with Stewart’s new short-form digital content that will be released through HBO Now, HBO Go and other platforms. However, the deal also includes first-look options for Stewart to pitch films and television series. During his extended hiatus from The Daily Show in 2014, Stewart directed the feature film Rosewater.
“Appearing on television 22 minutes a night clearly broke me,” joked Stewart. “I’m pretty sure I can produce a few minutes of content every now and again.”
HBO’s Michael Lombardo added his own take on the deal in a brief statement: “Jon Stewart led a revolution that changed the face of TV comedy on The Daily Show. He graced our network nearly 20 years ago, so we’re thrilled to welcome back his immense talents in this next chapter of his career.”
As part of the deal, Stewart will collaborate with OTOY, Inc using new technology that will allow Stewart to create and update his short-form content quickly. Further details were not disclosed.
Stewart’s former Daily Show colleague, John Oliver signed with HBO in 2013, and he is currently the host of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver.
What do you think about Jon Stewart’s new HBO gig? Should he host his own weekly show? Let us know below!
