Big Surprise on The Daily Show: Jon Stewart to Host Rare Thursday Episode

Jon Stewart will return to “The Daily Show” for a rare mid-week hosting. The episode airs on Thursday, September 18, one day after ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show. Stewart’s guest will be journalist and Nobel laureate Maria Ressa. The move marks an unexpected moment for Comedy Central fans.

The change comes at a tense time in late-night television. Kimmel’s suspension followed remarks he made about the reaction to activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination. The controversy left a gap in nightly programming, and Stewart’s return adds fuel to the ongoing debate.

Big Surprise, The Daily Show Brings Jon Stewart Back

Stewart normally hosts only on Mondays. He first led “The Daily Show” from 1999 to 2015. During those years, the show won many awards and built a loyal audience. He came back in 2024 for a once-a-week hosting role before the U.S. presidential race.

Now, Stewart will step in for a rare Thursday slot. According to Associated Press, the special edition will feature Maria Ressa. Ressa is known for her fight for press freedom and her book “How to Stand Up to a Dictator.” Her appearance underscores the show’s focus on truth and accountability.

Kimmel’s absence gave Comedy Central a chance to grab attention. ABC stations refused to air “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” this week. The Federal Communications Commission also raised concerns about Kimmel’s comments. Supporters argue he was misread. Critics say his words crossed a line. The debate continues while Stewart’s presence brings a fresh spotlight to Comedy Central.

Why This Daily Show Episode Matters

The timing is important. Late-night shows often reflect the mood of the country. With politics tense and media trust questioned, Stewart’s sharp voice matters more. His return at this moment is not just entertainment. It is commentary that many viewers seek.

The choice of guest also matters. Maria Ressa’s background makes this episode more than comedy. She faced threats in her home country, the Philippines, for speaking out. Her Nobel Peace Prize in 2021 confirmed her as a global figure for free press. Pairing her with Stewart shows the program’s intent to mix satire with serious issues.

For Comedy Central, this is a chance to boost ratings. For fans, it is a surprise gift. For the industry, it signals that “The Daily Show” remains relevant even in changing times. The buzz is already growing, and Thursday’s episode will be watched closely.

The big surprise on The Daily Show highlights Jon Stewart’s unique role. His Thursday return, paired with Maria Ressa, marks a powerful moment for late-night television.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is Jon Stewart hosting The Daily Show on Thursday?

He is stepping in for a rare mid-week episode following ABC’s suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s show. Stewart usually hosts only on Mondays.

Q2: Who will be the guest on this episode?

Maria Ressa, journalist and Nobel Peace Prize winner, will join Stewart. She is known for her fight for press freedom.

Q3: Why was Jimmy Kimmel suspended?

ABC suspended him after remarks about reactions to Charlie Kirk’s assassination. The FCC also reviewed his comments for misinformation concerns.

Q4: Why is this Daily Show episode important?

It comes at a time of political tension and media debate. Stewart and Ressa together bring satire and serious discussion.

Q5: When did Jon Stewart first host The Daily Show?

He became host in 1999 and continued until 2015. He returned in 2024 to host weekly episodes.

Sources: Associated Press; BBC News; Reuters; Variety; ABC statements; Comedy Central press notes.