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The liberal network MSNBC has announced a significant programming shift, resulting in the cancellation of Joy Reid’s nightly program ‘The ReidOut’. This decision marks one of the most prominent changes since the network’s leadership transition.
Sources indicate that Reid’s 7 p.m. ET slot will welcome a new show led by Symone Sanders-Townsend, a former spokesperson for Vice President Kamala Harris. The lineup will also feature Alicia Menendez and Michael Steele, who previously served as the Republican National Committee Chair and is now an MSNBC host.
Reid is slated to host her final episode of ‘The ReidOut’ this week, which has drawn attention across media outlets.
In addition to Reid’s show being canceled, MSNBC is undergoing further changes. The network’s new president, Rebecca Kutler, plans to unveil a range of programming alterations impacting daytime, weekend, and primetime slots. This strategic reorganization is expected to refresh MSNBC’s offerings to better engage viewers.
Among the anticipated updates, current host Jen Psaki of ‘Inside with Jen Psaki’ will likely receive increased screen time. Meanwhile, Alex Wagner, who had previously been elevated to primetime before Rachel Maddow adjusted her hosting schedule, will remain with MSCBC as a correspondent. However, it is unlikely Wagner will take on a 9 p.m. ET hosting role moving forward.
MSNBC did not provide comments when approached by media for further details.
Despite its progressive stance, ‘The ReidOut’ recently faced challenges in attracting viewers. In February 2025, the show averaged only 973,000 total viewers, a stark decrease from 1.3 million viewers during the same month in 2024. This 28% decline in viewership raised concerns about the show’s ongoing viability within the network.
Joy Reid has built a reputation for her outspoken criticism of former President Donald Trump, which has elicited both praise and backlash. After the 2020 presidential election, Reid stirred controversy by suggesting that Black women had turned away from efforts to save America due to perceived betrayals by White female voters, whose turnout had been unexpectedly high in support of Trump.
In a recent comparison, Reid described the Trump administration’s immigration policies as reminiscent of historical horrors such as the Holocaust and Hitler’s Germany, a statement that reignited discussions about her provocative style.
Reid’s controversies are not new; one notable incident occurred in 2018 when she faced backlash over homophobic statements made in her earlier blog, ‘The Reid Report’. Initially, she claimed that hackers were responsible for these comments and stated that she had contacted the FBI, a position that later fell apart as she acknowledged it was unlikely she had been hacked. Amidst the fallout, she expressed emotional regret but nonetheless continued rising within the network’s ranks.
This ongoing shakeup at MSNBC aims to revitalize its programming amidst shifting viewer habits and expectations. As audiences become more discerning, networks must adapt to retain existing viewers and attract new ones. The alterations occurring at MSNBC reflect a broader industry trend where media outlets are scrutinizing their programming and talent to align more closely with evolving audience interests.
The situation remains fluid, with more changes expected to be announced by the network as they tailor their approach to ratings and viewer engagement. As the media landscape continues to evolve, how MSNBC navigates this modern challenge will be closely observed.
Implications for Viewers and the Network’s Future
The cancellation of ‘The ReidOut’ not only signifies a shift in programming but also reflects broader trends in viewer preferences and network strategies. Many liberals express concern about the future representation of progressive voices on mainstream networks. Meanwhile, MSNBC seeks to strategize effectively, balancing its commitment to liberal viewpoints with the need to ensure robust ratings and audience engagement.
As this story develops, viewers and industry insiders alike will be watching to see how these changes impact MSNBC’s identity and its ability to connect with a diverse audience.
Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving situation.
