Big news from the world of fake news today, as longtime Daily Show host Jon Stewart reportedly announced during today's taping that he will be leaving the show that made him an unexpected giant in the world of political punditry.
Audience members who witnessed the announcement quickly began spreading the word across social media, and just moments ago, Comedy Central issued an official statement confirming that Stewart will leave the network some time in 2015.
"Jon will remain at the helm of The Daily Show until later this year," writes Comedy Central president Michele Ganeless. "He is a comic genius, generous with his time and talent, and he will always be a part of the Comedy Central family."
Stewart transformed The Daily Show from a celeb-skewering late night oddity to a must-watch for fans of left-leaning political comedy when he took over from then-host Craig Kilborn in 1999.
In the years since, Stewart blurred the line between humor and news, eventually becoming more trusted than MSNBC in the eyes of viewers.
Stewart has not given any clues as to what might be the next step in his career.
Stewart took a hiatus from The Daily Show last summer in order to direct the film Rosewater, and many are already speculating that his future might lie behind the camera.
Whatever path he chooses, Jon Stewart will be fondly remembered as the man who made us laugh while boldly holding politicians and journalists accountable for their actions.
We'll have more on this story as it develops.
Want more?
Get more content like this delivered to your inbox for FREE: