Jon StewartandHBOhave concluded an exclusive four-year production pact, it was announced today byMichael Lombardo, president, HBO Programming. The partnership marks the next phase ofJon Stewart’s groundbreaking career, beginning with short-form digital content, which will be showcased on HBO NOW, HBO GO and other platforms, and includes a first-look option for other film and TV ventures. The announcement comes three months after his final episode as host of Comedy Central’sThe Daily Show, after 16 years on the air.
In his first project for HBO under the new deal, Stewart will view current events through his unique prism. Working with the pioneering cloud graphics company OTOY Inc., he is developing new technology that will allow him to produce timely short-form digital content, which will be refreshed on HBO NOW multiple times throughout the day. Additional projects will be announced as they are confirmed. Here’s what HBO’sMichael Lombardohad to say about the network’s deal withJon Stewartin a statement.
“Jon Stewartled a revolution that changed the face ofTV comedyon theDaily Show. 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.”
Jon Stewartbecame the host of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart in 1999, stepping down from the show earlier this year. The series recently won threePrimetime Emmys, including Outstanding Variety Talk Series, and has received 23 Primetime Emmys overall, as well as two Peabody Awards. Stewart hosted theAcademy Awardstwice, wrote the bestselling book “Naked Pictures of Famous People,” and co-authored the bestselling books “America (The Book): A Guide to Democracy Inaction” and “Earth (The Book): A Visitor’s Guide to the Human Race.” Here’s whatJon Stewarthad to say in his own statement.
“I’m so excited to be working withRichard [Plepler],Michaeland the entire HBO family. 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.”
Jon Stewartalso wrote and directed the 2014 feature filmRosewater. Stewart’s previous HBO credits include the standup specialJon Stewart: Unleavened, hosting the specialGeorge Carlin: 40 Years of Comedy,Mr. Show with Bob and Davidand a recurring role onThe Larry Sanders Show. What do you think aboutJon Stewartproducingshort-form contentfor HBO? Stay tuned for more details regardingJon Stewart’s new endeavor with HBO.
