The curtain has fallen on Joy Reid's 'The ReidOut' as MSNBC announced its cancellation following nearly five years of programming, part of a wider restructuring initiated by the network's new president, Rebecca Kutler. The final episode is scheduled for February 24, 2025, at 7 p.m. ET.
Reid was celebrated for making history as the first Black woman to anchor a primetime slot at MSNBC when the show launched in July 2020. The cancellation of 'The ReidOut' is viewed by many as both shocking and disheartening, especially considering Reid's commitment to fostering important discussions about pressing societal issues.
During her last hour on air, Reid welcomed colleagues Rachel Maddow, Nicolle Wallace, and Lawrence O'Donnell. Each took the opportunity to pay tribute to Reid’s impactful career. "I love you, Joy, and I am bereft... The end of 'The ReidOut' is despair," Maddow expressed, encouraging viewers to find support among trusted individuals and stand united. Wallace echoed similar sentiments, likening Reid’s exit to “losing a limb," emphasizing the risk of despair being wielded as a tool of autocracy. O’Donnell reflected on their collaboration, stating, "It has been an honor" to work alongside Reid.
Reid’s emotional farewell also came during discussions about the significance of her work. She expressed, "I have been through every emotion... but where I really land... is just gratitude, just pure gratitude." This sentiment was echoed by her supporters who have admired her courage to tackle contentious topics, including her frequent criticism of the Trump presidency and commitment to civil rights.
The cancellation of 'The ReidOut' reportedly stems from Kutler's initiative to refresh MSNBC's programming, after taking over from former president Rashida Jones earlier this year. This realignment is aimed at optimizing viewer engagement and ratings, as the network looks to adapt to changing audience preferences. According to Kutler, "Joy Reid is leaving the network and we thank her for her countless contributions over the years," signaling the network’s acknowledgment of Reid's legacy.
Viewers and fellow journalists alike have expressed shock and disappointment over the loss of Reid’s distinct voice on political matters. Reid’s followers have taken to social media to express their sadness and gratitude for her contributions to the network and the broader conversation surrounding race and politics. Journalist Karen Attiah stated, "Joy Reid has been one of the few to give me and so many other Black voices consistent airtime. Black women’s voices are needed now more than ever." Meanwhile, former US Representative Jamaal Bowman described Reid as "a beacon on MSNBC and all of media," urging the creation of new platforms for marginalized voices.
Reid’s program will be replaced by a new panel show starring Alicia Menendez, Michael Steele, and Symone Sanders Townsend, who currently co-host 'The Weekend'. Amidst the changes, there are discussions of introducing fresh talent to MSNBC’s lineup, possibly including notable figures like Eugene Daniels and Melissa Murray.
Reid’s direct approach to covering pressing issues—be it race relations, immigration, or the Israel-Palestine conflict—set her apart on the cable news network. Her departure signals not just the end of her show but also raises questions about the future of representation within major media outlets. Activists and commentators have pointed to the need for continued advocacy for diverse voices and perspectives across media platforms.
With the evolution of MSNBC’s programming and the end of 'The ReidOut', the network faces both challenges and opportunities to reshape its identity. While Reid’s absence will be felt, many expect her influence and voice to persist through the messages she championed and the community she cultivated during her tenure on the air.