Jon Stewart Announces Departure from ‘The Daily Show’

Jon Stewart will no longer be the host of Comedy Central's "The Daily Show."

The beloved host, who became a major influential political figure, announced Tuesday that he will leave the show later on this year.

"This show doesn't deserve an even slightly restless host and neither do you," Stewart said at the end of the broadcast. "It's been an absolute privilege. It's been the honor of my professional life, and I thank you for watching it, for hate-watching it, for whatever reason you are tuning in for."

He added, "I don't have any specific plans. I gotta lot of ideas. I gotta lotta things in my head. I'm going to have, uh, dinner, on a school night with my family, who I have heard, from multiple sources, are lovely people."

Stewart took over hosting duties for "The Daily Show" in 1999 from Craig Kilborn. Over the years, Stewart's reputation for speaking the truth paired with comedic and sarcastic one-liners drew in viewers, who became loyal fans of the show.

On the show, Stewart never sugarcoated anything as he continuously called out politicians, the media and other influential people. His brutal honesty and criticisms earned the show 10 consecutive Emmy awards for outstanding variety series.

Comedy Central President, Michele Ganeless issued a statement that read:

"For the better part of the last two decades, I have had the incredible honor and privilege of working with Jon Stewart. His comedic brilliance is second to none. Jon has been at the heart of Comedy Central, championing and nurturing the best talent in the industry, in front of and behind the camera. 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. Jon will remain at the helm of 'The Daily Show' until later this year. He is a comic genius, generous with his time and talent, and will always be a part of the Comedy Central family."

Although it is sad to see Stewart go, many are already wondering who will be his replacement.