During a recent episode of his show “The Problem with Jon Stewart” on AppleTV+, the comedian and talk show host addressed the controversy surrounding his support for the COVID-19 lab leak theory. Stewart faced backlash for expressing his belief during an appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” last year. Despite the recent disclosure by the US Energy Department stating that a laboratory leak is now considered the most probable cause of the pandemic’s origin, Stewart did not believe this absolved him of any wrongdoing.
According to the New York Post, Stewart joked that he wasn’t waiting on the Department of Energy to weigh in on the issue and expressed concern about the inability to discuss ideas without falling into absolutes and litmus-testing each other’s political allegiances. He also criticized the dismissive and angry response he received from critics on the left, who attacked him for his remarks last year.
Stewart recalled that his backlash was swift and loud but didn’t take it personally. In the past year, most mainstream media organizations widely criticized the lab leak theory of COVID-19 as a conspiracy theory.
“The part that I don’t like about it is the absolutes and the dismissive like ‘f–k you, I’m done with you. I will never forgive you; you have crossed an unforgivable line. You’ve expressed an opinion that is antithetical to mine or not mine,'” Stewart said.
During his appearance on “The Late Show,” Stewart used humor to illustrate his belief in the theory. He expressed disbelief that the virus could have originated from a lab but highlighted the need to consider all possibilities. He pointed out that science had helped ease the pandemic’s suffering and may have caused it.
The controversy surrounding the COVID-19 lab leak theory continues to generate debate and discussion. Some believe Jon Stewart’s recent comments highlight the need for open and constructive dialogue about controversial topics without falling into absolutes and litmus-testing each other’s political allegiances.
