Jon Stewart Is Leaving "The Daily Show"

via BuzzFeed

Stewart’s representative confirmed to BuzzFeed News Tuesday that he is leaving the iconic Comedy Central show.

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Stewart's representative confirmed his departure to BuzzFeed News.

Comedy Central President Michele Ganeless issued a statement Tuesday about Stewart's departure:

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.

News of Stewart's departure leaked Tuesday immediately after the show's tapping.

Stewart took over The Daily Show from Craig Kilborn in 1999. Over the next 16 years he grew the show into a unique blend of news and humor. Over the years, Stewart conducted interviews with President Obama, and became a go-to source of information for millenials.

Last year, Stewart directed his first feature film, Rosewater, which premiered at the Telluride Film Festival.

The Daily Show also spawned a spin-off, The Colbert Report , during Stewart's time as host, which ended in December when host Stephen Colbert was chosen to replace David Letterman as host of the Late Show.

In an interview last year with NPR's Terry Gross, Stewart discussed the possibility of leaving the show. When Gross asked about doing something other than hosting, Steward said that "you know there are other considerations of family or even in the sense of just not wanting to be on television all the time" He added that "you can't just stay in the same place because it feels like you've built a nice house there."

This is a developing story. Check back later and follow @BuzzFeedNews for updates.