Jon Stewart’s hotly anticipated new Apple TV+ series now has a name:The Problem with Jon Stewart. Stewart will be hosting and executive producing the new current events series, which is set to premiere in the fall of 2021.
While this project may feel like a return to form for the formerDaily Showhost, there are a number of notable differences that set this new show apart, primarily the “single-issue” nature of each episode. That change has drawn comparisons toLast Week Tonight, HBO’s similarly focused current events show hosted by fellowDaily ShowalumJohn Oliver. Fortunately, there are also a number of details sure to distinguishThe Problemfrom any of its competitors. Notably, the new series will feature an hour-long format, a companion podcast series and promises to include topics that touch on Stewart’s advocacy work.
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Those distinguishing features will be necessary to differentiate the show from a field of competitors that has gotten significantly more crowded since Stewart departedThe Daily Showback in 2015. In addition toLast Week Tonight,Stephen Colbert’sThe Late Show With Stephen Colbert,Larry Wilmore’s Peacock showWilmore,Samantha Bee’sFull Frontal with Samantha Beeon TBS all feature formerDaily Showcorrespondents tackling current events. And, of course,The Daily Showcontinues under the guidance ofTrevor Noah.
Personally, I can’t wait for Stewart’s return. ThoseDaily Showalums have all found their voices on their respective shows, which means there’s plenty of room for Stewart’s in the mix. And after several years away (and another directing credit under his belt for 2020’sIrresistible), Stewart is bound to bring a fresh set of eyes to the genre. Apple certainly has faith in the project, having already signedThe Problemfor a multiple-season deal.
Stewart will be joined on executive producer duties by showrunnerBrinda Adhikari, Stewart’s longtime managerJames Dixon, andRichard Plepler.Chelsea Devantez(The Opposition with Jordan Klepper) is head writer andLorrie Baranek(The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore) is the executive in charge of production. This show represents the first of a first-look deal between Apple TV+ and Stewart’s Busboy Productions.
The Problem with Jon Stewartwill premiere exclusively on Apple TV+ this fall. Be sure to stay tuned for further details and a set premiere date.
