On June 21, 2019, the Newseum will unveil a new exhibit, “Seriously Funny: From the Desk of ‘The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.'” The exhibit will explore the impact Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” had on American politics and the press through four presidential campaigns, two wars and the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
More than 50 artifacts will be on display, from “The Daily Show” and the satirical news shows it inspired, as well as print publications that reported on the show’s influence. The exhibit also features an original Newseum-produced film that goes behind the scenes at “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah.”
The centerpiece of the exhibit will be Stewart’s desk from “The Daily Show,” donated to the Newseum after Stewart’s final appearance on the late-night series. “Seriously Funny” will also explore Stewart’s lasting influence on political satire through the comedians he mentored, including Stephen Colbert, John Oliver, Samantha Bee, Hasan Minhaj and Trevor Noah, current host of “The Daily Show.”
“Jon Stewart challenged politicians, as well as the press, to do a better job of serving the public,” said Patty Rhule, vice president of exhibit development and content at the Newseum. “He used the tools of TV news to explore serious topics in humorous ways and inspired his fans to be savvier consumers of news…”
“Seriously Funny” is made possible with support from Comedy Central. The exhibit will be displayed at the Newseum through Dec. 31, 2019.
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