Why is Trevor Noah leaving The Daily Show on Comedy Central?

In a surprising announcement, Trevor Noah will no longer be hosting Comedy Central’s The Daily Show. The popular personality of the late-night talk and satirical news television program has been in the host seat for seven years.

The half-hour series first premiered in July 1996, hosted by Craig Kilborn. Jon Stewart took over those duties from January 1999 to August 2015. That’s when the South African host stepped in with his first show on Sept. 28, 2015. His first guest was comedian Kevin Hart.

Among his other talents, Noah is also a comedian, writer, producer, political commentator, and actor. Fans of the television host were caught by surprise. So why is he leaving The Daily Show?

Why is Trevor Noah leaving The Daily Show?

The news was revealed at the taping of the Sept. 29, 2022 show. As is usual, the host was behind his desk where he then announced the news. It sounds like he is ready to move on.

"I found myself thinking throughout the time of everything we’ve gone through. The Trump presidency, the pandemic, just the journey, more pandemic, and I realize that after the seven years, my time is up."

He didn’t definitively give a specific reason as to why he’s chosen to leave, but his statement hints it could be due to the busy schedule of the late night talk show and wanting to get back to his standup comedy roots.

"I spent two years in my apartment, not on the road, and when I got back out there, I realized there’s another part of my life out there that I want to carry on exploring. I miss learning other languages. I miss going to other countries and putting on shows."

While an official last day hasn’t been announced yet, Noah said “it’s not instant” and he’s “not disappearing.” Watch the announcement and Noah thanking his loyal viewers in the video below: