MSNBC is undergoing a substantial programming overhaul this week, highlighted by the cancellation of Joy Reid's long-running show, 'The ReidOut.' This marked shakeup, orchestrated under the new president Rebecca Kutler, signals a fresh direction for the cable network as it grapples with dwindling ratings and the need for revamped content.
Joy Reid has anchored 'The ReidOut' since 2020, becoming known as one of the network's prominent liberal voices, often vocal against former President Donald Trump. Her program, which airs weekdays at 7 p.m. ET, will soon be replaced by a new panel show led by co-hosts Alicia Menendez, Michael Steele, and Symone Sanders Townsend. Each of these hosts brings unique political perspectives, with Menendez making history as the first Latina to host a primetime news program on MSNBC.
According to sources familiar with the situation, Reid's final episode is set to air this week, capping off her five-year tenure at the 7 p.m. time slot. The decision to remove 'The ReidOut' is part of Kutler’s ambitious plans to refresh the network's content lineup, which has struggled to keep pace with competitors like Fox News and CNN.
The overhaul aligns with the network’s growing concerns about its audience retention, especially after it recorded its lowest ratings ever just last month. Reid’s viewership reportedly dropped sharply, averaging approximately 973,000 total viewers during February 2025, compared to 1.3 million the previous year. The New York Times noted this decrease is part of wider issues plaguing MSNBC, which, though it has outperformed CNN, has consistently lagged behind Fox News.
Plans for the new panel show suggest Kutler values the diverse and progressive representation she has worked to cultivate within the network. The Weekend anchors are expected to contribute to the fresh format on Mondays for two hours, extending to one hour from Tuesday to Friday. This change is viewed as Kutler’s attempt to not only rejuvenate the lineup but also to build on the success of earlier programming such as 'Inside with Jen Psaki,' which Kutler conceived.
While the network is poised for changes, it has become clear they will not stop at Reid’s cancellation. The 9 p.m. ET slot, currently filled by Rachel Maddow, who is likely to revert to a once-a-week schedule soon, leaves openings for new leadership. Jen Psaki, who has garnered attention as the host of her own show, is among the candidates considered for this coveted time slot.
Even Alex Wagner, who previously hosted the 9 p.m. program, will remain at MSNBC, but as merely as a correspondent rather than as anchor. The network is contemplating additional integrative measures, such as reinforcing the news staff and establishing a Washington Bureau for enhanced national coverage and storytelling.
MSNBC, under the guidance of Kutler—who took over leadership just weeks ago—seems to be leaning heavily on both its political anchors' strengths and growing its programming talent. Her track record at the network includes the successful launch of 'The Weekend,' which managed to improve viewership significantly since its debut. This could be indicative of her intent to tap commonly recognized media personalities, making room for newer, more appealing voices.
The news of Reid's departure has evoked mixed reactions from viewers on social media, many expressing disappointment and concern over the changes. This sentiment reflects the challenge media companies face when reconceiving anchor representation and viewer engagement—striking the right balance between innovation and maintaining loyal viewers.
"We have new leadership, new programming, and likely new audience expectations," Kutler stated during recent internal meetings, hinting at her vision for the network. By implementing these changes, she aims to craft MSNBC’s identity moving forward, especially as it prepares for its impending spin-off from parent company Comcast, which is rumored to generate new content strategies.
Reid’s exit also signals broader shifts within political media, as numerous platforms strive to recalibrate their approach following the tumultuous political climate marked by Trump’s presidency. Regardless of her controversial moments, Reid’s program has become synonymous with fierce liberal commentary, and her departure undoubtedly marks the end of an era for many viewers accustomed to her outspoken style.
While specifics about the upcoming programming changes remain scarce, insiders hint more announcements are likely as Kutler’s reshuffle continues over the ensuing weeks. For now, the focus shifts to the final moments of 'The ReidOut' as Joy Reid bids farewell to her loyal audience, leaving big shoes to fill for her successors.