Why Birmingham comedian Roy Wood Jr. is leaving ‘The Daily Show’

Today on NPR’s Morning Edition, Birmingham comedian Roy Wood Jr. announced that he would not be returning as a Correspondent on Comedy Central’s ‘The Daily Show’, a late-night satirical news show aired by Comedy Central. Read on to learn more about the decision.

Why Roy Wood Jr. is leaving The Daily Show

Born and raised in Birmingham, Roy Wood Jr. is a stand-up comic, actor and—for the past eight years—a Correspondent on The Daily Show. Wood’s career with The Daily Show began in 2015, the same year that longtime host Jon Stewart passed the torch to Trevor Noah.

After Trevor Noah left The Daily Show in 2022, Comedy Central has been on the lookout for a suitable replacement. Since then, several of the show’s Correspondents have served as guest hosts, including Wood back in April. As guest host, Wood referenced Birmingham multiple times and even encouraged viewers to support I See Me, Inc.—a local literacy organization founded in The Magic City. 

During his tenure on The Daily Show, Roy Wood Jr. has garnered praise from fans of the show and other comedians. In fact, even Stephen Colbert backed Wood as a replacement to Trevor Noah.

So, why is Roy Wood Jr. leaving The Daily Show? According to his interview on NPR’s Morning Edition, Roy Wood Jr. has not yet been offered the role of permanent host on the show, and he wants to take some time to figure out what’s next for his career.

“I can’t come up with Plan B is while still working with Plan A. The job of correspondent…it’s not really one where you can juggle multiple things. [And] I think eight years is a good run.”

Roy Wood Jr., in an interview with NPR’s Morning Edition

What do you think Roy Wood Jr. will land next? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know your thoughts!