MSNBC’s decision to cancel Joy Reid’s “The ReidOut” sends shockwaves through the network as part of a major programming overhaul.
Key Takeaways
- MSNBC cancels Joy Reid’s “The ReidOut” amid falling ratings and staff reductions
- Over 100 new job opportunities to be posted, with affected staff encouraged to apply
- Reid likely to be replaced by a panel including Symone Sanders Townsend and Michael Steele
- Decision based on data analysis and programming strategy, not political reasons
- Further changes expected, including new primetime lineup and Washington DC bureau
MSNBC’s Unexpected Announcement
In a surprising move, MSNBC has decided to discontinue Joy Reid’s show “The ReidOut” as part of an extensive staff reduction and programming overhaul. The news, which first leaked through media channels before an official confirmation, caught many off guard and left staff members feeling blindsided.
MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler addressed the situation in a tense virtual meeting with ReidOut staff. She acknowledged the poor communication surrounding the announcement and confirmed that while current staff would be terminated, they would have the opportunity to apply for over 100 new positions to be posted within the network.
A New Direction for MSNBC
The cancellation of “The ReidOut” is part of a broader slate of programming changes at MSNBC. The network is reevaluating its content strategy and considering new formats to boost its appeal and combat falling ratings. One proposed idea involves replacing Reid with a hosting panel featuring familiar faces like Symone Sanders Townsend and Michael Steele.
Kutler emphasized that the decision to cancel Reid’s show was based on “data analysis and programming strategy,” rather than political reasons. The network hopes that Reid’s staff can continue to produce content for the 7 p.m. slot with rotating hosts until a new show is established.
Reactions and Controversy
The cancellation of “The ReidOut” has sparked various reactions from different quarters. Joy Reid herself expressed gratitude to her supporters on social media platforms Bluesky and Instagram. However, not everyone views the decision positively.
Former MSNBC host Keith Olbermann criticized the decision as “racist” and suggested it was meant to exclude diverse voices. On the other hand, 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, MSNBC is gearing up for more changes. This marks the first major move by Kutler since becoming president of MSNBC, aiming to strengthen the network’s liberal stance while boosting viewership.
Additional changes include Alex Wagner losing her 9 p.m. anchor position as Rachel Maddow returns to a full-time schedule, at least temporarily. Jen Psaki, former White House Press Secretary, is expected to anchor a primetime hour during the week. Kutler is also planning to establish a new MSNBC bureau in Washington DC.
As MSNBC navigates these significant changes, the network will try to reinvigorate its audience and content strategy. The coming weeks and months will reveal whether these bold moves will pay off in terms of ratings and viewer engagement.
