In an exciting turn of events for fans of The Daily Show, Jon Stewart’s comeback on February 12 was met with enthusiastic viewership, suggesting a promising trajectory for the show. While it’s crucial to acknowledge the limited data available, the initial numbers following Stewart’s return indicate a significant boost in viewership across subsequent episodes hosted by Jordan Klepper.

Stewart’s Return Sparks a Ratings Surge

The decision to bring back Jon Stewart has proven to be a strategic move, evident from the surge in viewership observed after his inaugural show. Despite the relatively small sample size, the impact on The Daily Show’s ratings is undeniable. The show’s producers have structured Stewart’s role to include hosting duties on Monday nights, with other correspondents stepping in for the remainder of the week.

Impressive Numbers for Klepper’s Hosting Stint

Following Stewart’s return, Jordan Klepper took the reins for three consecutive episodes, delivering impressive ratings. From February 13-15, Klepper’s hosting stint garnered an average of 461,000 same-day viewers, marking the highest viewership in over 2 1/2 years. When combined with the viewership for Stewart’s Monday show, The Daily Show amassed an average of 588,000 viewers for the week, marking its strongest performance since March 2021.

Beyond Same-Day Viewership

The impact of Stewart’s return extends beyond immediate viewership numbers. Comedy Central reports a total of 3.06 million viewers across all simulcast networks and delayed viewing platforms after three days. This indicates a substantial reach and suggests a sustained interest in Stewart’s presence on the show.

Surpassing Guest Hosts’ Performance

Klepper’s three-day tenure at The Daily Show desk outshone the performance of guest hosts in 2023. Even compared to notable guest hosts like Al Franken and Roy Wood Jr., Klepper’s viewership numbers stand out. This reaffirms Stewart’s enduring appeal and the unique draw he brings to the show.

Looking Ahead: Desi Lydic’s Hosting Role

As The Daily Show continues its lineup of guest hosts, correspondent Desi Lydic is slated to take the helm for the Tuesday through Thursday editions. With the momentum generated by Stewart’s return, anticipation is high for Lydic’s upcoming episodes.

Jon Stewart’s return to The Daily Show has not only reignited excitement among fans but has also translated into tangible success in viewership numbers. The initial ratings surge following Stewart’s comeback sets a promising tone for the show’s future, reaffirming its position as a cultural and comedic powerhouse.