Seven Stars Who Got Their Start on The Daily Show

Story by Gabby Strand

1. Stephen Colbert

Started off as a debater on The Daily Show, but eventually graduated to host his own show, The Colbert Report, on Comedy Central. He is scheduled to replace David Letterman on the Late Show later this year.

2. Steve Carell

Carell’s humble beginnings also started with him as a mock debater against none other than Stephen Colbert on a segment called “Even Stevphen.” After being cast as Michael Scott on NBC’s The Office, he scored many more roles in popular comedy films like “The 40-Year-Old Virgin,” “Little Miss Sunshine” and “Date Night.”

3. John Oliver

Oliver served as a correspondent and writer from 2006 to 2013, winning three Emmy awards. He has moved on to host his own show on HBO, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, which premiers at the end of April.

4. Ed Helms

Helms was part of The Daily Show from 2002 to 2006 as an interviewer of popular guests. Later, he followed in the steps of Steve Carell and was casted as Andy Bernard on NBC’s “The Office.” He is probably most well known for his role in “The Hangover” films.

5. Kristen Schaal

As the senior women’s correspondent on The Daily Show, Schaal has made a name for herself in the world of alternative comedy. Originally a writer for “South Park,” she has won numerous stand-up comedy awards. She also prides herself in being a sort of nemesis to John Oliver.

6. Olivia Munn

Munn was a correspondent on The Daily Show from 2010 to 2011. In her short time with Comedy Central, she was recognized for her acting and comedic talents. Some of her popular roles since leaving she show include “Magic Mike,” “New Girl,” and the HBO series, “The Newsroom.”

7. Jessica Williams

Williams is the latest star to emerge from The Daily Show, and she’s already generating lots of talk. It was widely speculated she would be first in line to take over as host once Stewart leaves. She has politely declined, but has certainly reached a new level of success. 

+ posts