Jon Stewart's final night hosting "The Daily Show" is upon us.
Thursday evening, Stewart will host an especially long episode – at least 50 minutes according to Comedy Central president Michele Ganeless. No one knows who his guests are or what's planned, but it's certain to be a massive celebration.
But we're not here to speculate on Stewart's last night. This piece is about looking back at the lasting impact of "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" on both late-nite comedy and political discourse in America. Stewart's beloved for his ability to make us laugh – no doubt – but he's even more celebrated for his ability to highlight the absurdity of the American political system, from politicians to pundits to media, and everything in between.
Jon Stewart wasn't always the politically-minded "Daily Show" host we know and love. He took over for original host Craig Kilborn in January of 1999, and much of his first years were spent finding his voice.
The first episode featured plenty of political commentary and a few nods to what the show would become.
He ended it with a speech telling viewers: "I'm sure many of you are curious, 'Is my beloved Daily Show going to change?' Well, it might. Subtly. And, I know change can be painful, but from change comes growth." Stewart said during his premiere episode. "I'm a new member of this family, your family, and I'll be here for you every night," he added.
His coverage of former President Clinton's impeachment proceedings were comical, but ultimately lighthearted. It wasn't until the election debacle of 2000 that Stewart's political focus sharpened.
Stewart, alongside Colbert, attacked the November 7, 2000 election night head-on. The show became an hour-long special for the evening, and the subsequent month of debate over whether George W. Bush or Al Gore won the election became a flashpoint for Stewart's pointed commentary on the American political system.
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