John Mulaney Explains Why He Passed On Hosting The Daily Show

John Mulaney revealed that he was extremely flattered to get a request to host The Daily Show although he ultimately passed as it wasnt the right thing at that moment.

The comedian, who recently released his stand-up special John Mulaney: Baby J on Netflix , told Basic! podcast hosts Jen Chaney and former Viacom Music and Entertainment Group president Doug Herzog that the request arrived shortly after the SNL 40th anniversary special aired in February 2015.

Jon Stewart , who hosted The Daily Show for 16 years, announced his departure around the time of the specials air date and eventually left the program that August.

I think we were floating your interest in that, and you were very lukewarm, as I remember, said Herzog.

No, no, no, I was not lukewarm, replied Mulaney, who added that Fox had just cancelled his sitcom Mulaney after one season.

I was extremely flattered that yall were asking me about it. I sensed they would be big shoes to fill. I think I also was gun-shy from putting myself out there at that moment after the Fox run. And I sensed all eyes would be on whoever came after Mr. Stewart.

Mulaney then recounted he had a desire to do the show years later. However, then-Comedy Central president Kent Alterman referred to the decision as one for now.

It wasnt the right thing at that moment, but I remember saying to Kent, I wish it was five years from now. And he went, Yeah, but its not, Mulaney said.

I mean, I just remember Kent had a great tone of I hear you. Im here to hear out anything you have to say, but its now, and were asking you about it, and we cant talk hypothetically for that long at this dinner, John.

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