Rumors are swirling that Hasan Minhaj, the former creator of “Patriot Act,” is among the leading candidates to host Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show.” Trevor Noah, the previous host, departed the late-night news show in December, leaving the coveted seat to various guest hosts. According to inside sources, Minhaj, aged 37, is not yet guaranteed the position, as the deal is believed to be still in progress. However, he has emerged as a likely successor to Trevor Noah.
Minhaj has history with “The Daily Show,” having been a correspondent on the show from 2014 to 2018. He received praise when he guest-hosted the show for a week in March. Interestingly, he holds the distinction of being the last “Daily Show” player hired by Jon Stewart before he left the show in 2015.
Minhaj shared his interest in hosting the comedy program in a recent interview, acknowledging that the decision would involve a family conversation due to the significant impact on his life and loved ones. Hosting “The Daily Show” is an all-consuming role, and Minhaj wants to ensure everyone is on board with the idea.
While producers hope to finalize their decision by May 2024, the current actors and writers strikes may cause delays. Meanwhile, a range of guest hosts, including Wanda Sykes, Marlon Wayans, Sarah Silverman, Kal Penn, and Leslie Jones, have temporarily filled Trevor Noah’s seat.
Leslie Jones, a former “Saturday Night Live” cast member, expressed her desire to see a black woman host “The Daily Show.” She believes it’s time for a black woman to take on the role and hopes the industry will embrace this much-needed change.
