Stewart, Close earn Emmy Awards

by Staff | October 8, 2009

Comedian Jon Stewart ‘84, one of William & Mary's most famous alumni, has been lauded again by the entertainment industry. His humorous news program "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" brought home the award for best comedy or variety show during the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences' Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony in September. Additionally, the show's writing staff earned the award for best writing in a comedy or variety series. With Stewart in the show's anchor chair since 1999, the Comedy Central program has earned a total of 13 Emmys and an Emmy a year for seven consecutive years between 2003 and 2009.

Stewart studied psychology at William & Mary, and he was a member of the Tribe's soccer team. He began his show-business career as a stand-up comedian, and he hosted several television show before landing his current position, including "The Jon Stewart Show" on MTV. Along with hosting "The Daily Show," Stewart also serves as a writer and co-producer on the show. Along with his Emmy wins, Stewart and "The Daily Show" have also won two Peabody Awards.

Another famous William & Mary alumna also received an Emmy at this year's awards show. Glenn Close '74 was presented with the award for outstanding lead actress in a drama series for her role on FX's "Damages." An Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony Award-winning actress, Close also received a star on the Holloywood Walk of Fame this year.

While at William and Mary, Close - who majored in drama and anthropology- appeared in several university productions including "The Common Glory," "The Seagull" and "Anything Goes." Since her graduation she has supported the College through service as the honorary co-chair of the Alumni Association's New York Auction. Both she and Stewart held that post in 2004.