Trevor Noah, a newcomer to The Daily Show’s roster of correspondents, will take over for Jon Stewart on the Comedy Central show.

Trevor Noah Replacing Jon Stewart

Noah joined The Daily Show as a correspondent back in December, and only appeared on three episodes of the show before getting the major promotion to fill in Stewart’s shoes.

“You don’t believe it or the first few hours. You need a stiff drink, and then unfortunately you’re in a place where you can’t really get alcohol,” Noah, who is currently on a comedy tour in Dubai, told The New York Times about his new gig.

Though Noah isn’t particularly well known, Stewart pointed out to the young comedian that neither was he when he first sat down behind the desk at The Daily Show. “He told me, ‘I was where you were when I took over the show,'” Noah told The Times. “‘Nobody knew me. I was just starting out, finding my voice, and that’s when I was handed this seat.’ Now, it’s my turn to steer this ship.”

In a statement, Stewart gave Noah’s hiring his vote of approval – and even suggested he might be tempted to come by his show as a correspondent.

“I’m thrilled for the show and for Trevor,” Stewart’s statement read. “He’s a tremendous comic and talent that we’ve loved working with,” adding that he “may rejoin as a correspondent just to be a part of it!!!”

In his own official statement, Noah said, “It’s an honor to follow Jon Stewart. He and the team at The Daily Show have created an incredible show whose impact is felt all over the world. In my brief time with the show they’ve made me feel so welcome. I’m excited to get started and work with such a fantastic group of people.”

Stewart announced his decision to walk away from The Daily Show after 16 years back in February. Noah will takeover The Daily Show from Stewart later this year.