Jon Stewart Leaves “The Daily Show” For Unknown Reasons

Jon Stewart, whose wit defined “The Daily Show” for more than 15 years, will sign off the iconic Comedy Central program later this year.

“In my heart I know it is time for someone else to have that opportunity,” he said on Tuesday night’s show as his studio audience gasped.

Members of the audience yelled “we love you Jon” as he expressed his appreciation for the show’s staff and called hosting it “the honor of my professional life.”

It isn’t clear when Stewart will sign off; his contract expires in September, but he may leave as soon as July, or as late as December, he said.

In a farewell statement, Michelle Ganeless, the president of the channel, called Stewart “a comic genius, generous with his time and talent,” and said the host “will always be a part of the Comedy Central family.” (Read more from “Jon Stewart leaves ‘The Daily Show'” HERE)

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