Roy Wood Jr. Will Leave 'The Daily Show' After Being Passed Over As Host

Advancing at a job can be difficult. It can be even harder in the entertainment world. Unless you are the offspring of someone famous or a cis white man who screws up constantly, getting into the spotlight is a challenge. At least, when it comes to “normal” jobs, one’s attempt at advancement wouldn’t be broadcast across the nation, as with The Daily Show.

Since Trevor Noah’s exit, the question of who would replace him has been on many minds. Pre-strike, the show’s plan was … strange. They would funnel in guest hosts, attempting to find a perfect fit. That tactic felt odd, as most people would tell you The Daily Show already had a murderer’s row of potential hosts. For scores of people, Roy Wood Jr. was at the top of that list. Now, the comedian and veteran correspondent is stepping aside (kind of).

Wood Jr. told NPR that he would not be returning as a correspondent. He also made it clear that he would consider hosting if he were asked. It’s an incredible move showing that Wood Jr. recognizes what many other people do. He is worth it. Roy Wood Jr. has been an incredible correspondent. If they don’t want to give him (or the whole team) the job, then he wants to move on.

The comedian also said that he doesn’t hold a grudge. He’s taking the high road, even though he would be justified in being upset or at least annoyed. The search for a host went through … hiccups when frontrunner Hasan Minhaj revealed that he has been untruthful in his truth-based one-man shows. Even then, it seemed apparent that Roy Wood Jr. was not heavily favored by Comedy Central.

Roy Wood Jr. has done incredible work on and off The Daily Show. He will land on his feet wherever he goes. There is still a possibility that he finds himself hosting the show with its coveted placement between reruns of South Park and The Office. Frankly, I hope that doesn’t happen. I think Roy Wood Jr. has outgrown The Daily Show, and that’s for the best.