Jimmy Kimmel’s Shocking Revelation: ABC Almost Picked Jon Stewart
In a candid interview, Jimmy Kimmel revealed that ABC was moments away from signing Jon Stewart for a late-night talk show before his own audition tape swung the deal. The behind-the-scenes story offers a fascinating glimpse into how close late-night TV history came to being rewritten.
How Jon Stewart Nearly Became ABC’s Late-Night Star
Jon Stewart, then the iconic host of The Daily Show, was ABC’s top choice in the early 2000s as the network sought to compete with NBC’s The Tonight Show and CBS’s Late Show with David Letterman.
“They were this close to signing Jon,” Kimmel admitted, noting Stewart’s reputation for razor-sharp political satire and a loyal fanbase. But a last-minute submission changed the game.
The Audition Tape That Saved Kimmel’s Career
As ABC executives leaned toward Stewart, Kimmel’s team submitted a tape for Jimmy Kimmel Live!—a project initially met with skepticism.
“They weren’t sure about me,” Kimmel recalled. Yet his mix of celebrity interviews, street sketches, and irreverent humor won them over. ABC realized Kimmel’s broader appeal could attract a wider audience than Stewart’s niche political comedy. Within days, the network greenlit Kimmel’s show, which debuted in 2003.
What If Stewart Had Joined ABC?
Fans are left wondering:
– Would The Daily Show have survived without Stewart?
– Would Stephen Colbert or John Oliver have risen to prominence sooner?
Stewart’s 2015 departure from The Daily Show left a void, while Kimmel’s show thrived with viral segments like “Mean Tweets” and heartfelt monologues.
Kimmel’s Gratitude and Stewart’s Lasting Influence
“I owe Jon Stewart a thank-you card,” Kimmel joked, acknowledging Stewart’s impact on modern late-night comedy. Though Stewart never commented on the near-deal, his legacy endures—just not on ABC.
Final Takeaway
This twist of fate reshaped late-night TV. Whether you prefer Kimmel’s humor or Stewart’s satire, one thing’s certain: ABC’s gamble paid off.
What do you think? Would late-night TV be better with Stewart at ABC? Share your thoughts below!
