Kal Penn Finishes Second Outing At ‘Daily Show,’ Hopes For Permanent Gig

Photo: @DailyShow

India-West News Desk

NEW YORK, NY – In the wake of his second guest-hosting stint on Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show,” Kal Penn, the versatile actor known for his roles in the “Harold & Kumar” series, is eyeing new opportunities in the late-night landscape as he navigates the possibility of becoming the successor to Trevor Noah, a role that has been the subject of prolonged search, reported Variety.

Penn reflected on the experience, calling it a “perfect merger of both of my worlds.” Not only does he draw on his comedic background, but also his time as a public engagement liaison in the Obama administration. Penn is part of a select group, including Sarah Silverman, Leslie Jones, and Charlamagne Tha God, invited to take another shot at the hosting assignment.

Penn in this second outing welcomed Indian comedian and actor Vir Das, and filmmaker Zoya Akhtar.

“The Daily Show” has a history of targeting the youngest late-night audience, and Penn believes the newer generation is both savvy and socially conscious, said Variety. He notes their interest in topics ranging from climate change to human rights, asserting, “This newer generation is so savvy. There is such an opportunity to reach an audience that first and foremost wants to laugh but is also way more dialed into wanting to change things.”

As Paramount Global continues its quest to find a fitting successor, Kal Penn stands as a potential candidate bringing a unique blend of humor, advocacy, and a fresh perspective to late-night television.