Comedian Jon Stewart is returning to standup comedy in his first taped special in more than 20 years for HBO, the network announced Wednesday at the Television Critics Association summer press tour.
While Netflix has emerged as a standup comedian powerhouse in recent years, Stewart is returning to a network he’s already worked with before. His last special, Jon Stewart: Unleavened, aired in 1996 on HBO, and he already has a working relationship with HBO after signing a four-year deal with the network in 2015.
“I’m really thrilled to be able to return to standup on HBO,” Stewart said in a statement. ”They’ve always set the standard for great stand-up specials. Plus, I can finally use up the last of the Saddam Hussein jokes left over from my first special.”
It’s unclear where and when the standup special will take place, but HBO plans to announce that at a later date.
HBO also announced that Stewart will also host this year’s Night of Too Many Stars benefit, which will air live on Nov. 18. The special, which will consist of sketches, standup routines, and short films, will raise money for the non-profit NEXT for AUTISM.
“We’re excited to bring Jon to the network with this pair of specials,” HBO programming president Casey Bloys said. “We’ve all missed his uniquely thoughtful brand of humor.”
H/T AV Club
