Talk about being on the fast track to success. After only joining The Daily Show a few months ago, Trevor Noah has been announced as Jon Stewart’s successor to host the satirical news show. The South African comedian made his debut on the show in December, and much like former Daily Show correspondent John Oliver, he brings an outsider’s perspective to the news in the United States. “I never thought I’d be more afraid of police in America than in South Africa,” he joked on his debut. “It kind of makes me a little nostalgic for the old days, back home.”
Noah learned of the promotion while in Dubai. “You don’t believe it for the first few hours,” Noah said. “You need a stiff drink, and then unfortunately you’re in a place where you can’t really get alcohol.” Stewart has endorsed the new host, saying “I’m thrilled for the show and for Trevor. He’s a tremendous comic and talent that we’ve loved working with.” Stewart is so pleased with Noah that he might return to the show just to hang out with him. “I may rejoin as a correspondent just to be a part of it!!!” Comedy Central knows that whoever takes over from Stewart will have big shows to fill, but Noah’s biracial background and ability to speak six languages might distinguish him from the rest of the late-night landscape. Not to mention his youth, surely a factor in the decision, as The Daily Show‘s audience is young. Stewart was 36 when he took over as host of the show from Craig Kilborn. At 31, Noah will be the youngest late-night host currently on television. Jimmy Fallon is 40; Jimmy Kimmel is 47; Stephen Colbert, who takes over from David Letterman later this year, will turn 50 in May.
