Comedian Trevor Noah announced that he will be stepping down as the host of The Daily Show. He said he is "filled with gratitude for the journey" but there is "another part of life" he wants to explore.
At the end of the show on Thursday, he thanked loyal fans and crew for an "amazing seven years". He said it has been "wild, truly wild". Studio audiences were shocked at the announcement.
The satirical news and talk show have been Noah's main gig since 2015. He was a relative unknown when Comedy Central network hired him. In seven years, he has become an internationally recognised comedian and shaped the show's identity. He recalled the channel made a crazy bet by appointing a "random African" as host and so many people did not believe in it.
He also thanked the network by saying the early days felt like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. "I came in for a tour of what the previous show was, and then the next thing I know I was handed the keys. All I can say is thank you very much."
He further said that a lot happened during his time hosting the show including Donald Trump's presidency and the pandemic. "I've loved hosting this show. It's been one of my greatest challenges. It's been one of my greatest joys. But after seven years, I feel like it's time," said Noah.
Speaking about his future plans, he said he misses learning other languages and going to other countries and putting on shows. "I just miss being everywhere and doing everything."
The timing of the show is not yet announced and Noah will continue as the host.
The 38-year-old started his career in his native South Africa by doing stand-up comedy specials and a late-night talk show. He relocated to the US in 2011.