After rumors circulated about the possibility of comedian Trevor Noah taking on the role as host of the Daily Show, Comedy Central confirmed the news earlier this morning.
The 31-year-old comedian, who became gained popularity stateside after his hilarious stand-up routine about growing up as a mixed race child in Apartheid South Africa as well his observations on the differences between Africans and African-Americans, made his debut on The Daily Show last December.
His first segment was a biting and funny segmented centered on police brutality in America and stereotypes about Africa.
“Trevor Noah is an enormous talent. He has an insightful and unique point of view, and most importantly, is wickedly funny,” said Michele Ganeless, Comedy Central president. “For the next host of The Daily Show, we set out to find a fresh voice who can speak to our audience with a keen take on the events of the day, and we found that in Trevor. He has a huge international following and is poised to explode here in America, and we are thrilled to have him join Comedy Central.”
The exciting news comes two months after Jon Stewart announced he would be the show, after hosting and serving as executive producer for over 15 years. Last month, fans also started a grassroots campaign to advocate Jessica Williams as the next host of the show, which the funny lady gracefully declined.
Fans of the show have been largely positive since the news broke, a sign that The Daily Show will be in good hands.