Jon Stewart defended his named “Daily Show” successor Trevor Noah against a wave of criticism that found some of his past tweets insensitive toward Jews and women.
“My experience with him is that he is an incredibly thoughtful and considerate and funny and smart individual, and I think if you give him that time it’s going to be well worth it,” Stewart said April 6 on the show.
The day after Noah was announced as Stewart’s successor on March 30, the South African stand-up comedian came under fire for some of his tweets. B’nai B’rith and the Anti-Defamation League issued statements urging Noah not to perpetuate Jewish stereotypes when he takes over “The Daily Show.”
Stewart asked fans not to judge the 31-year-old on a handful of past tweets. “I can say this without hesitation: Trevor Noah will earn your trust and respect — or not … I do hope you give him an opportunity to earn that trust and respect,” Stewart said.
Comedy Central has defended its choice of host as well, as has Noah himself. — jta