Jon Stewart

First of all, it was strange coincidence to see "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye referenced in the assignment post as I was listening to it for the History of Rock and Roll (make-up) exam.

I originally wanted to post a link to the Jon Stewart monologue on his first show after 9/11. It was truly a touching moment and was arguably the most beautiful, heartfelt response on television following the attacks. Unfortunately Comedy Central made YouTube take the video down and no amount of Googling turned up any real copies of the clip.

In its stead, here is another Jon Stewart video: http://youtube.com/watch?v=aFQFB5YpDZE
Here is the accompanying transcript: http://politicalhumor.about.com/library/bljonstewartcrossfire.htm

This is the interview that Stewart did on Crossfire in 2004 to promote the "America" book. Basically he spent the entire interview blasting Paul Begala and Tucker Carlson for failing to fulfill their responsibility to the American people by pumping out partisan hackery on each show. Certainly this is not the most inspiring thing in the world to me, but I felt that it fit well with the course. Plus I wanted an excuse for watching that in the midst of catching up on work from last week. I find it inspiring because Jon Stewart leaves his shtick at home. He is not The Daily Show's Jon Stewart, he is simply the frustrated citizen Jon Stewart. Of course, his frustrations with Crossfire and shows of that ilk are exacerbated because he has to watch them every day to produce The Daily Show. Enjoy the video and keep in mind that not long after this interview Crossfire was canceled.

An excerpt that I particularly enjoyed:

CARLSON: I do think you're more fun on your show. Just my opinion. OK, up next, Jon Stewart goes one on one with his fans...
STEWART: You know what's interesting, though? You're as big a dick on your show as you are on any show.