Jon Stewart is leaving The Daily Show. He has hosted the show on Comedy Central show since taking over for Craig Kilborn in 1999. Stewart apparently let the cat out of the bag at today’s episode taping when told the audience he is "retiring." There are currently no details on where he might be heading next or who might replace him, but he will leave the show later this year.

Shortly after the news broke, Comedy Central released a statement from president Michele Ganeless:

For the better part of the last two decades, I have had the incredible honor and privilege of working with Jon Stewart. His comedic brilliance is second to none. Jon has been at the heart of Comedy Central, championing and nurturing the best talent in the industry, in front of and behind the camera. Through his unique voice and vision, ‘The Daily Show’ has become a cultural touchstone for millions of fans and an unparalleled platform for political comedy that will endure for years to come. Jon will remain at the helm of ‘The Daily Show’ until later this year. He is a comic genius, generous with his time and talent, and will always be a part of the Comedy Central family.