MSNBC is making major changes to its programming lineup, and one of the biggest shifts includes the cancellation of The ReidOut, hosted by Joy Reid. According to sources familiar with the matter, Reid’s 7 p.m. evening news show will air its final episode this week.
The decision comes as part of a broad restructuring led by MSNBC’s new president, Rebecca Kutler, who is looking to revamp the network’s programming in an effort to boost ratings. While MSNBC continues to outperform CNN, it still trails behind Fox News.
Who’s Replacing Joy Reid?
To fill the 7 p.m. slot, MSNBC plans to introduce a new show featuring a trio of familiar faces:
- Symone Sanders Townsend – Political commentator and former Democratic strategist
- Michael Steele – Former chairman of the Republican National Committee
- Alicia Menendez – TV journalist and MSNBC host
The three currently co-host The Weekend, which airs on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
MSNBC has not publicly commented on Reid’s departure, nor has Reid herself.
More Changes on the Horizon
The overhaul doesn’t stop with The ReidOut. Other big shifts are expected across the network, including changes to MSNBC’s 9 p.m. slot.
Previously, Rachel Maddow had reduced her nightly appearances, hosting The Rachel Maddow Show only on Mondays.
However, in January, she resumed hosting five nights a week for the first 100 days of the Trump administration. Alex Wagner had taken over the slot for the other four nights, but she is now being replaced permanently.
A likely candidate to take over Wagner’s spot is Jen Psaki, the former White House press secretary under the Biden administration.
Psaki currently hosts shows on Sunday afternoons and Monday evenings, though no final decision has been made.
Wagner, who has been a key part of MSNBC’s lineup, is expected to remain with the network as an on-air correspondent.
MSNBC’s Corporate Shift
These programming changes come at a time of major corporate restructuring at MSNBC. Comcast, NBCUniversal’s parent company, is spinning off MSNBC into a separate media group alongside CNBC and USA Network.
The new company will be led by longtime NBCUniversal executive Mark Lazarus. While Lazarus was briefed on the programming overhaul, sources say he wasn’t directly involved in the decision-making.
New Faces at MSNBC?
MSNBC is also exploring fresh talent to expand its programming. The network is reportedly considering giving on-air roles to:
- Eugene Daniels – Co-author of Politico’s Playbook newsletter
- Melissa Murray – NYU law professor and legal analyst
Both would supplement their current roles with additional on-air hosting duties.
What’s Next for Joy Reid?
Joy Reid has been a prominent voice on MSNBC for years. She originally hosted AM Joy, a weekend talk show, before taking over the 7 p.m. slot in 2020. Her appointment was a key programming decision made by then-NBCUniversal News chairman Cesar Conde.
As of now, it’s unclear what’s next for Reid, whether she’ll remain with MSNBC in a different capacity or move on to other projects.
Final Thoughts
With MSNBC shaking up its lineup, it’s clear the network is making a big bet on change. Whether these moves will resonate with viewers—and improve ratings—remains to be seen.
