MSNBC is implementing a significant overhaul of its programming lineup, resulting in the cancellation of several shows hosted by prominent liberal anchors. This move comes in the wake of Joy Reid’s recent departure from the network.
The network has announced the termination of weekend programs led by Ayman Mohyeldin, Jonathan Capehart, and Katie Phang. These changes are part of a broader strategy by MSNBC’s new president, Rebecca Kutler, to revamp the network’s offerings and address declining ratings.
In addition to these cancellations, Jen Psaki, former White House press secretary, has been promoted to a new primetime slot. She will now host the 9 p.m. show from Tuesday to Friday, replacing Alex Wagner, who will continue with the network as a senior political analyst.
Joy Reid’s show, “The ReidOut,” is set to be replaced by “The Weekend,” a program featuring hosts Michael Steele, Symone Sanders-Townsend, and Alicia Menendez. This change aims to bring a fresh perspective to the 7 p.m. timeslot.
These programming adjustments coincide with parent company Comcast’s plans to spin off MSNBC and its other cable properties into a new entity. The restructuring reflects the network’s efforts to adapt to the evolving media landscape and viewer preferences.
While these changes are intended to rejuvenate MSNBC’s lineup, they have elicited mixed reactions from both staff and audiences. Some insiders express concern over the departure of groundbreaking hosts, while others view the shakeup as a necessary step toward revitalizing the network’s appeal.