Satirist Jon Stewart calls it a day on ‘The Daily Show’

Jon Stewart wrapped up his long-running The Daily Show with effusive tributes to his show’s staff, many on hand to see him off while political and media luminaries who served as some of the satirist’s favourite targets, from Bill O’Reilly to Hillary Clinton, appeared on tape.

Stewart, whose Comedy Central show racked up 18 prime-time Emmy awards over 16 years spent satirising the eccentricities of American politics, TV news and culture, opted for a relatively straight-forward finale of filmed bits, one-liners from famous names and political satire.

The requisite musical sendoff came courtesy of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band.

Thank you for 16 amazing years, Jon. We'll miss you. #JonVoyage pic.twitter.com/lmsea0WrTe

— comedycentral (@ComedyCentral) August 7, 2015

An extended segment featured a bevy of the show’s storied correspondents who served up commentary on Thursday night’s crowded Republican presidential debate.

Stewart targets including Clinton, TV host O’Reilly, Secretary of State John Kerry, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and New York Senator Chuck Schumer weighed in with a litany of often snarky goodbyes, culminating in Senator John McCain’s snarled “So long, jackass.”

Stewart reflected that “The thing I’m going to miss most about this place is the people,” who he said “never fail to have my back ... This is the most beautiful place I’ve ever been.”

The show’s host grew emotional as he thanked his wife Tracey and his children “for teaching me what joy looks like.”