MSNBC’s decision to cancel Joy Reid’s “The ReidOut” leaves staff blindsided and the network’s future programming uncertain.
Quick Takes
- MSNBC cancels Joy Reid’s “The ReidOut” amid major programming changes
- Staff learned of cancellation through media reports before official announcement
- Over 100 new positions to be opened as part of network’s transition plan
- Reid likely to be replaced by panel including Symone Sanders Townsend and Michael Steele
- Decision based on “data analysis and programming strategy,” not political reasons
MSNBC Axes “The ReidOut” in Surprise Move
In a shocking development, MSNBC has announced the cancellation of Joy Reid’s primetime show “The ReidOut” as part of a major network overhaul. The decision, first reported by media outlets before being confirmed internally, left staff reeling and raised questions about MSNBC’s future direction. Rebecca Kutler, MSNBC’s president, addressed employees in a tense virtual meeting, confirming the show’s termination while outlining plans for new job opportunities within the network.
The cancellation comes as MSNBC grapples with declining ratings and seeks to revitalize its programming lineup. Joy Reid, a prominent liberal voice and critic of President Donald Trump, has hosted shows on MSNBC since 2016. However, her viewership has significantly declined, with a reported 53% drop in primetime ratings following the 2020 election.
Staff Blindsided by Announcement
The manner in which the cancellation was communicated has drawn criticism from “The ReidOut” staff. Many learned of their show’s fate through media reports before receiving official word from MSNBC leadership. This breakdown in internal communication led to a tense atmosphere during the virtual meeting with Kutler.
“It was a “terrible, terrible way to learn about our fate,” one staffer remarked, highlighting the shock and frustration felt by the team. During the meeting, Kutler acknowledged the poor communication and confirmed that while current staff positions would be terminated, over 100 new positions would be posted as part of the network’s transition plan. Employees were encouraged to apply for these new roles, though the announcement did little to assuage concerns about job security.
New Direction for MSNBC
The cancellation of “The ReidOut” is part of a broader slate of programming changes at MSNBC. The network is considering a new setup with multiple anchors to fill Reid’s coveted timeslot, with names like Symone Sanders Townsend and Michael Steele being floated as potential replacements. This restructuring aims to energize the network’s programming and regain viewer interest.
MSNBC emphasized that the decision to cancel Reid’s show was based on “data analysis and programming strategy,” rather than political considerations. However, the move has not been without controversy. Former MSNBC host Keith Olbermann criticized the decision as “racist,” suggesting it was meant to exclude diverse voices. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump expressed approval of the cancellation, criticizing Reid’s talent and ratings.
Trump just DESTROYED NBC, MSNBC, Rachel Maddow, and Joy Reid pic.twitter.com/nx9JxLOgrM
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) February 24, 2025
Looking Ahead
As “The ReidOut” prepares to air its final episode this week, questions remain about MSNBC’s future direction. The network is planning further changes, including a new bureau in Washington DC and the potential addition of former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki as a primetime anchor. These moves signal MSNBC’s attempt to revamping its lineup and strengthen its position in the competitive news landscape.
With these sweeping changes, MSNBC aims to navigate the challenges of a shifting media environment and reconnect with viewers. As the dust settles on this major shakeup, all eyes will be on the network to see how these programming decisions impact its ratings and overall standing in the world of cable news.
