Earlier this month, Jon Stewart stepped down at the helm of “The Daily Show” after 16 years.

His team earned 20 Emmy Awards, and a generation of comedy stars including Steve Carell and Stephen Colbert got their big breaks as fake news correspondents on his show.

Stewart’s popularity grew along with his boldness, and so did his influence, especially with younger viewers. For years now, he has been near the top of polls as one of the most trusted voices in America. What may have landed him that spot was his sincerity during some of the tragedies he covered. During his first show back after the September 11 terror attacks, Stewart started the show by simply asking everyone ‘Are you okay?’ It was his ability to put everything in perspective which made Stewart so memorable.

In a world where the news media is ratings-driven, Stewart was often eager to critique the sensationalism going on around the major news outlets. “The Daily Show” became a place where viewers who were tired of the political system in this country could tune in and see someone keeping them honest every day.

Stewart always claimed he was nothing more than a comedian doing a comedy show, but  the influence he had on media and politics watchers during his tenure made it clear he was so much more than just a comedian. The most important thing Stewart gave viewers during this trying time in America was a place to feel bad, laugh, and ultimately strive towards something better in this country.