Jon Stewart is leaving The Daily Show later this year.

The talk show host will exit the satirical news programme after 17 years, Comedy Central announced yesterday (February 10).

Stewart shared the news while filming Tuesday's episode of the show.

Michele Ganeless, the network's president, said in a statement: "For the better part of the last two decades, I have had the incredible honour 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."

She continued: "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."

Stewart took a break from The Daily Show in summer 2013 to film Rosewater, his directorial debut, which told the true story of a journalist who was jailed for four months in Iran.