Jon Stewart has today confirmed that Apple canceled his TV+ show over creative differences regarding topics he planned to cover as part of the now-canceled third season of “The Problem with Jon Stewart.” The charismatic TV personality delved into his split with Apple in a discussion with CBS Mornings and reported by Variety.
Stewart, a renowned comedian and political commentator, was gearing up for the third season of his show, which promised to delve into a range of topics such as China, the 2024 US presidential elections, and artificial intelligence. Apple TV+ scored a significant victory when the initial season of the show premiered on September 30, 2021.
In his today’s revelations with CBS Mornings, Stewart stated that Apple “felt that they didn’t want me to say things that might get me in trouble” over controversial topics he planned to discuss as part of his show.
I wanted a place to unload thoughts as we get into this election season. I thought I was going to do it over at — they call it Apple TV+. It’s a television enclave, very small. It’s like living in Malibu. But they decided … they felt that they didn’t want me to say things that might get me in trouble.
Jon Stewart to CBS Mornings
Apple abruptly decided to cancel “The Problem with Jon Stewart” before its third season, with reports alluding to creative differences between the company’s executives and topics Stewart planned to cover. In particular, Apple was reportedly wary of episodes rumored to focus on China, fearing that the show’s critique of the country might negatively impact the company’s ties with the Chinese government.
Amid concerns that Apple is self-censoring to preserve ties with China, the cancellation of the show has drawn criticism from US lawmakers. A bipartisan group has previously written to Apple CEO Tim Cook, seeking an explanation for the decision and expressing worry about potential content self-censorship to appease the Chinese government, given the country’s significance as a key market for Apple products.
Jon Stewart will now return to “The Daily Show” where he served as a host for 15 years between 1998 and 2015. The first episode of his return will air tonight, with plans to host an episode every Monday night including the 2024 US presidential elections later this year.
