Jon Stewart has finally found his big post–Daily Show move: He’s following Jon Oliver to HBO! The network announced today that it had formed “an exclusive four-year production pact” with Stewart, under which the former TDS host will produce “short form digital content” for HBO Now, HBO Go, and mysterious “other platforms.” It all sounds very futuristic, especially the part of the press release that talks about how Stewart “is developing new technology,” which will allow him to eviscerate people, concepts, and minerals multiple times a day. HBO will also have first-look rights for any other film or TV projects Stewart dreams up, which should come in handy the first time one of these segments gets someone in trouble with the Iranian government.
The full press release is below:
Jon Stewart and HBO have concluded an exclusive four-year production pact, it was announced today by Michael Lombardo, president, HBO Programming. The partnership marks the next phase of Stewart’s groundbreaking career, beginning with short-form digital content, which will be showcased on HBO NOW, HBO GO and other platforms, and includes a first-look option for other film and TV ventures.
In his first project for HBO under the new deal, Stewart will view current events through his unique prism. Working with the pioneering cloud graphics company OTOY Inc., he is developing new technology that will allow him to produce timely short-form digital content, which will be refreshed on HBO NOW multiple times throughout the day. Additional projects will be announced as they are confirmed.
“Jon Stewart led a revolution that changed the face of TV comedy on the ‘Daily Show,’” said Lombardo. “He graced our network nearly 20 years ago, so we’re thrilled to welcome back his immense talents in this next chapter of his career.”
“I’m so excited to be working with Richard [Plepler], Michael and the entire HBO family,” says Stewart. “Appearing on television 22 minutes a night clearly broke me. I’m pretty sure I can produce a few minutes of content every now and again.”
