Jon Stewart and HBO are joining forces.
The network announced Tuesday that it has entered into an exclusive four-year production pact with the former Daily Show host, which will start with Stewart making short-form digital content — and includes a so-called "first look option" for any other film and TV ventures Stewart might have in mind down the line. (Meaning, HBO has dibs before anyone else.)
“Jon Stewart led a revolution that changed the face of TV comedy on the Daily Show,” said HBO president Michael Lombardo. “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.”
In his first project for the network, Stewart is said to be working with graphics company OTOY to develop a technology that will allow him to produce short-form digital content in a timely manner, "which will be refreshed on HBO NOW multiple times throughout the day."
“I’m so excited to be working with Richard [Plepler], Michael and the entire HBO family,” says Stewart. “Appearing on television 22 minutes a night clearly broke me. I’m pretty sure I can produce a few minutes of content every now and again.”
HBO's deal with Stewart comes just a few months after the network signed Bill Simmons, the popular sportswriter who had was kicked to the curb by ESPN earlier this year. Signing Stewart and Simmons in succession highlights HBO's push to invest in individual talent that has proven successful on TV as well as online.
The move also reunites Stewart with his former Comedy Central network mate John Oliver, whose Emmy-nominated Last Week Tonight has carved a space for itself in the crowded late night field by focusing on investigative journalism and social justice.
Stewart stepped away from his Daily Show gig back in August with a star-packed farewell show.
At the time of his departure, Stewart made it clear to viewers that his exit was far from a permanent goodbye — but insisted he had no solid future plans.
"Rather than saying goodbye or good night, I'm just gonna say 'I'm gonna go get a drink,'" Stewart said at the time. "And I'm sure I'll see you guys before I leave."
New host Trevor Noah stepped into the role in late September.
Jason Abbruzzese contributed to this report
Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.
Post a Comment