South African Comedian Trevor Noah Named as the New Host of 'The Daily Show'

South African comedian Trevor Noah is set to replace Jon Stewart on The Daily Show, the New York Times reports. He first made his debut as a contributor to the nightly satirical show last December. His first appearance took aim at racial tensions in the US, saying: “I never thought I’d be more afraid of police in America than in South Africa.”

Stewart who has hosted the influential comedy show for 16 years, announced he would be stepping down in January “I’m thrilled for the show and for Trevor,” said Stewart in a statement. “He’s a tremendous comic and talent that we’ve loved working with.” Speaking to the New York Times from Dubai, where he is on tour, the comedian expressed disbelief at his appointment. “You don’t believe it for the first few hours,” he said. “You need a stiff drink, and then unfortunately you’re in a place where you can’t really get alcohol.”

Jon Stewart also added he “may rejoin [The Daily Show] as a correspondent just to be a part of it!”