MSNBC Overhauls Programming: Joy Reid’s Show Cancelled Amid Major Changes
Joy Reid’s “The ReidOut” Comes to an End
In a significant shake-up within the world of cable news, MSNBC has announced that Joy Reid’s popular evening program, “The ReidOut,” will be coming to an end. The show, which has been a staple of the network’s lineup for the past five years, is set to air its final episode later this week. Reid, who has been one of MSNBC’s most prominent anchors, has been a key figure in the network’s programming since 2016 when she began hosting “AM Joy,” a weekend talk show. Her promotion to the 7 p.m. slot in 2020 was one of the first major decisions made by Cesar Conde, the chairman of NBCUniversal News Group. Now, as part of a broader overhaul led by MSNBC’s new president, Rebecca Kutler, the network is moving in a new direction.
A New Era at 7 p.m.: Symone Sanders Townsend, Michael Steele, and Alicia Menendez Take the Helm
Replacing Reid’s show will be a new program hosted by a trio of well-known personalities: Symone Sanders Townsend, Michael Steele, and Alicia Menendez. The three currently co-host “The Weekend,” which airs on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Sanders Townsend, a political commentator and former Democratic strategist, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Steele, the former chairman of the Republican National Committee, offers a conservative perspective, while Menendez, a seasoned TV journalist, provides a balanced and insightful approach. This new lineup reflects MSNBC’s effort to diversify its programming and offer a more dynamic, multi-perspective approach to its evening news coverage.
Rebecca Kutler’s Vision for MSNBC
The cancellation of “The ReidOut” and the introduction of the new 7 p.m. show are just the beginning of a series of changes orchestrated by Rebecca Kutler, MSNBC’s new president. Kutler, who was appointed to the role earlier this month, has been working on a comprehensive overhaul of the network’s programming in an effort to boost ratings. While MSNBC has managed to outperform CNN in recent years, it still lags behind Fox News, the longtime leader in cable news ratings. Kutler’s goal is to revitalize the network and make it more competitive in the ever-changing media landscape.
Rachel Maddow and Alex Wagner: What’s Next?
In addition to the changes at 7 p.m., MSNBC is also making adjustments to its 9 p.m. slot. Earlier this year, Rachel Maddow, the network’s standout anchor, returned to hosting her 9 p.m. show five days a week during the first 100 days of the Trump administration. At the time, it was announced that Alex Wagner, who had been hosting the 9 p.m. show four days a week, would return to her role at the end of April. However, those plans have since changed. Instead, MSNBC is looking to appoint a new anchor to fill Wagner’s spot. A strong contender for the position is Jen Psaki, the former White House press secretary in the Biden administration, who currently hosts shows on Sunday at noon and 8 p.m. on Mondays. While the decision has not been finalized, Psaki’s political expertise and on-air presence make her an ideal candidate for the role. Wagner, who has not yet commented on the changes, is expected to remain at MSNBC as an on-air correspondent.
Expanding the Roster: New Faces at MSNBC
MSNBC is also looking beyond its current roster of anchors to freshen up its programming. The network is considering roles for Eugene Daniels, a co-author of Politico’s influential Playbook newsletter, and Melissa Murray, a professor at the New York University School of Law. Both Daniels and Murray would bring unique perspectives and expertise to the network, with their roles supplementing their current jobs. This move reflects MSNBC’s effort to tap into a wider talent pool and bring in voices that can offer fresh insights and analysis.
A Strategic Shift for MSNBC
The programming changes at MSNBC are part of a larger strategic shift for the network. In addition to the overhaul of its on-air lineup, MSNBC is also undergoing a corporate restructuring. As part of a planned spinoff by Comcast, MSNBC’s parent company, the network will be separated from NBCUniversal News Group and will join other Comcast-owned cable channels, such as CNBC and USA Network, under a new company led by veteran executive Mark Lazarus. While Lazarus was briefed on the programming changes by Kutler, he was not directly involved in the details of the overhaul. The restructuring and programming changes are all part of MSNBC’s effort to position itself for success in an increasingly competitive media environment.
