Praise Xenu, Jon Stewart is back. And not only thatâhe’s coming to HBO. Though it is certainly old news by now (as it was announced back in November), but we’re really pumped about what, exactly, he’s doing with his 4-year production deal. Turns out? Our dude is going digital in a big way, and we couldn’t be more pleased about it. (Welcome, Jon! It’s nice here and â we swear â not only trolls.)
In the initial statement from HBO, the network stated that “[t]he 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. HBO will also get first look rights to any documentaries or films Stewart wants to create.
But don’t expect to necessarily see Stewart’s mug on screen when these videos roll out. While he will produce and narrate themâworking alongside a graphics company called OTOYâhe’s not likely to show up in them, likely due to the videos’ frequent updates throughout the day. Plus, y’know, that whole “being on TV for 22 minutes a day” thing probably tuckered the poor lad right out.
According to a spokesperson that chatted with CNN, Stewart’s contributions are expected to roll out early next year, so this election cycle will continue on without himâsighâbut perhaps he’ll get the country to care about the midterms. Because that’s a pretty important thing our nation cares very little about, right?
But what do you think of Stewart’s move to HBO and new content strategy? Or are you just happy to have him back at all? Let us know in the comments below!
Image: Cliff1066/Flickr
Alicia Lutes is the Managing Editor of Nerdist and co-host of Fangirling. Find her on Twitter (@alicialutes).