Jon Stewart became a problem for Apple TV+

'The Problem with Jon Stewart' [Apple TV+]

Apple canceled "The Problem with John Stewart" in October 2023 after a strong two-season run and multiple Emmy nominations. At the time, it was believed that there were disagreements over topics for the third season.

In an interview the morning of his reappearance behind the desk at Comedy Central's "The Daily Show," Stewart talked to CBS Mornings about the upcoming show among other topics. However, he did touch upon the ending of his show on Apple TV+.

Without directly confirming the reason for the cancellation, Stewart steered clear of rumors. He did say Apple "didn't want me to say things that might get me in trouble."

While the separation was reportedly amicable, the cancellation was rumored at the time to be caused by a disagreement between Stewart and Apple over topics for the third season. Topic suggestions that allegedly caused Apple concern included artificial intelligence and China.

The show had previously covered controversial areas, such as racism and climate change. At one point, Stewart even criticized Apple directly on the show itself.

It was unclear exactly why Apple wasn't supposedly happy about the topics, due to what had previously been broadcast on Apple TV+.

The cancellation and the rumors also led to a House of Representatives Select Committee on Competition with the Chinese Communist Party demanding Apple to justify the decision. Specifically, the committee wanted an answer on if China had undue influence on Apple and the programming. It's not clear how that worked out, or if Apple ever responded formally.

Stewart says his return to "The Daily Show" is because he needed 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," Stewart added.