During an episode taping, Jon Stewart, the host of The Daily Show, said that he will be stepping down as the host. “This show doesn’t deserve a slightly restless host and neither do you,” said Stewart as he humbly announced his departure.

Stewart commented that he did not have any specific plans but that his 17 years as The Daily Show’s host has been his longest job and that he knows in his heart that it’s time for someone else to have an opportunity.

After the taping, Comedy central released this statement in response to Stewart’s news:

For the better part of the last two decades, we 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.