Jon Stewart, the outspoken former host of The Daily Show, is once again making headlines—but this time, it’s not for his usual political commentary. Stewart is in the midst of a fiery controversy after ABC News made the decision to part ways with veteran journalist Terry Moran, and the comedian-turned-commentator did not hold back. Calling the network’s actions “so stupid” and “laughable,” Stewart unleashed a scathing attack on ABC, revealing shocking details about what really happened behind the scenes

For those unfamiliar, Terry Moran has been one of ABC News’ most respected journalists for over two decades. Having covered major political events, international crises, and even the Obama presidency, Moran has earned a reputation as a journalist committed to truth and integrity. So when ABC News made the surprising and controversial decision to let him go, it sent shockwaves through the media world.

But it wasn’t just Moran’s firing that set Stewart off—it was the secret ABC News tried to sweep under the rug.

A Furious Outburst

In a recent interview on his podcast, Stewart didn’t mince words. “It’s an absolute f–king joke,” Stewart said, his frustration palpable. “Terry Moran is one of the most seasoned, intelligent journalists out there. And you’re telling me they just decided to fire him? It’s so stupid. It makes no sense.” Stewart’s anger was fueled by more than just the firing itself—he went on to suggest that the decision was tied to internal power struggles and financial interests that had nothing to do with Moran’s work ethic or reputation.

“Let me tell you what really went down,” Stewart continued. “They didn’t just fire him because of any professional reason, they did it for the same reason networks make dumb decisions—they want to make the numbers look good, they want a fresh face for the audience. It’s so predictable, it’s laughable. But what’s worse is the secret they’ve tried to bury.”

The Secret ABC Tried to Hide

According to Stewart, the real story behind Moran’s firing wasn’t about ratings or Moran’s performance—it was about a larger issue that the network was hoping would remain under wraps. Sources close to the situation have revealed that ABC News had been under increasing pressure to rebrand itself, especially after slipping ratings and internal conflicts among the network’s top executives.

Stewart alleged that Moran had been a casualty of that rebranding process, which included a “purge” of older, established talent to make room for new faces that could appeal to a younger audience. But the plot thickens: insiders suggest that Moran’s departure was also influenced by the growing influence of streaming and digital media in shaping the future of news broadcasting.

“It’s not about journalism anymore, folks. It’s about the almighty algorithm,” Stewart said. “And ABC News is so busy chasing those algorithms, they’re making decisions that are completely disconnected from what real journalism is about.”

Backlash From the Industry

Stewart’s comments have ignited a firestorm of reactions within the media industry. Veteran journalists, including those from other networks, have come out in support of Moran, condemning the way he was treated. In a tweet that went viral, CNN correspondent Jake Tapper called the firing “an embarrassing move for a network that should know better.”

“Everyone in the industry knows Terry’s credibility, his skill, and his integrity,” Tapper wrote. “This feels less like a firing and more like a public betrayal. The public deserves better from their news outlets.”

Many others in the industry have echoed similar sentiments, with some pointing to the broader trend of news organizations increasingly focusing on flashy personalities and ratings-driven content at the expense of hard-hitting journalism. The debate over Moran’s firing highlights the growing tension between journalistic integrity and the bottom line, which is shaping the future of media.

Moran’s Legacy at ABC News

Terry Moran’s departure from ABC is not just a personal loss but a symbolic one for traditional broadcast journalism. As an anchor for Nightline and a key player in ABC’s political coverage, Moran has been an essential part of the network’s journalistic legacy. His in-depth reporting, his ability to ask the tough questions, and his careful, nuanced storytelling made him a trusted figure in American households for years.

Moran’s most notable coverage includes his reporting on major international stories, such as the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as his work during the 2008 and 2012 presidential elections. His calm, measured approach to news reporting stood in stark contrast to the sensationalism that has become commonplace in modern media.

In a statement following his departure, Moran expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he had at ABC News and wished the network well moving forward. However, the fact that ABC didn’t offer a more detailed explanation for his firing has only fueled speculation and backlash from both industry professionals and the public.

What’s Next for Jones?

As the fallout from Moran’s firing continues to unfold, the question remains: what’s next for Lawrence Jones and other established anchors at ABC News? Stewart’s fiery comments, paired with growing industry outrage, may prompt ABC News to reevaluate its recent decisions and public image.

One thing is clear: the media world is watching closely. This is more than just a story about one journalist’s firing—it’s about the future of the media industry and what happens when networks prioritize profits over the quality of their reporting.

For now, the industry waits to see how this controversy plays out. But if Stewart’s comments are any indication, ABC News may have only just begun to feel the fallout from its shocking decision.