Hasan Minhaj Of ‘The Daily Show’ Will Headline The Trump-Less White House Correspondents’ Dinner

Even though President Donald Trump will not be attending this year’s White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, the so-called “Nerd Prom” will still go on. What’s more, the annual gathering — during which the leader of the so-far-still-free world is typically roasted by a professional comedian — will stick to tradition by having The Daily Show‘s Hasan Minhaj come along to skewer to absent Trump. All of this should result in a rather interesting series of events. While Full Frontal‘s Samantha Bee broadcasts her alternative to the WHCD, her former employer will be sending one of its chief roasters to keep things afloat.

“I am thrilled that Hasan will serve as our featured entertainer,” Reuters White House Correspondent and WHCA President Jeff Mason said in a statement. “Hasan’s smarts, big heart and passion for press freedom make him the perfect fit for our event, which will be focused on the First Amendment and the importance of a robust and independent media.”

“It is a tremendous honor to be a part of such a historic event even though the president has chosen not to attend this year. SAD!” Minhaj exclaimed in a statement. “Now more than ever, it is vital that we honor the First Amendment and the freedom of the press.”

Politico reports other comics were approached to headline at the much-delayed event, which typically occurs in February, like The Late Late Show host James Corden. However, the “Carpool Karaoke” creator declined the offer. Even so, the WHCD’s push back to April 29th, Trump’s absence from it all, and Minhaj’s hiring could ultimately make for a rather unique, if not unforgettable evening. After all, The Daily Show correspondent famously eviscerated members of Congress to their faces at last year’s Radio and Television Correspondents Associate Dinner, so we know he has the chops to do right by the somewhat abandoned WHCD.

(Via Politico)

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