Jon Stewart Leaving 'The Daily Show' After 19 Years, 15 Emmys

Jon Stewart is leaving "The Daily Show" later this year, Comedy Central announced Tuesday, ending his 19-year run on the satirical news program that won 15 Emmys during his tenure.

“His comedic brilliance is second to none,” Comedy Central tweeted. “Through his unique voice and vision, ‘The Daily Show’ has become a cultural touchstone for millions of fans and an unparalleled platform for political comedy that will endure for years to come.”

The network did not set a date for Stewart's departure, only saying he will leave later this year.

Longtime fans were surprised and saddened by the news.

Say it ain't so, Jon Stewart!!!!! don't go don't go!!

— Andy Cohen (@Andy) February 11, 2015

In as much as Jon Stewart will be available in 2016... pic.twitter.com/tqe93m6MLr

— John Nichols (@NicholsUprising) February 11, 2015

#JonStewart leaving the #DailyShow is tragic. It's ok though because we still have cable news which is equally hilarious

— Montel Williams (@Montel_Williams) February 11, 2015

So let me get this straight Jon Stewart is not going to be on TV during the 2016 election? That's bad news...

— Jeff Goldsmith (@yogoldsmith) February 11, 2015

I hope Jon Stewart's new show is called The Hourly Show, and runs 24/7 on the new Jon Stewart Network.

— Doug Bartow (@dougbartow) February 11, 2015

More news directly from Stewart will occur on tonight’s show, if a tweet from “The Daily Show” is any indication:

Tonight! For once, you wanna stay through the interview.

— The Daily Show (@TheDailyShow) February 11, 2015

Stewart has been on the show since 1999, taking over for Craig Kilborn and turning "The Daily Show" into what Time magazine called calls “a cultural touchstone.” The show under Jon Stewart had 50 nominations.

Here is the complete statement from Comedy Central:

Thank you Jon. pic.twitter.com/yPdxjnkuLw

— Comedy Central (@ComedyCentral) February 10, 2015

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