MSNBC Show Axed: What Led to the Sudden Cancellation?

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MSNBC cancels Joy Reid’s “The ReidOut” amidst ratings plummet, leaving staff blindsided and sparking controversy.

Quick Takes

MSNBC cancels Joy Reid’s show as part of major programming shakeup
Staff blindsided by cancellation, learned through media reports
Reid to be replaced by panel including Symone Sanders Townsend and Michael Steele
Decision based on “data analysis and programming strategy,” not politics
Former host Keith Olbermann criticizes move as “racist”

MSNBC Pulls Plug on “The ReidOut”

In a surprising move, MSNBC has decided to cancel Joy Reid’s primetime show “The ReidOut” as part of a broader strategy to address declining ratings and implement staff reductions. The news, which caught many off guard, was confirmed by MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler during a tense virtual meeting with the show’s team. Kutler advised staff about potential new job opportunities within the network, with over 100 positions expected to open up.

The cancellation comes as MSNBC attempts to revitalize its programming in the face of sagging viewership numbers. Reid’s show, which has been a staple of the network’s lineup for years, has seen a significant decline in ratings, with a reported 53% drop in primetime viewership since the 2020 election. The final episode of “The ReidOut” is set to air this week, marking the end of Reid’s tenure as a primetime host.

Staff Blindsided, New Opportunities Promised

The announcement of the show’s cancellation left staff members feeling blindsided and upset. Many learned about the decision through media reports before receiving official word from network executives. During the virtual meeting, one staffer expressed their frustration, saying, “It was a terrible, terrible way to learn about our fate.”

Kutler acknowledged the poor communication and confirmed that while staff would be terminated, they would have the opportunity to apply for new positions within the network. She emphasized that the decision was based on “data analysis and programming strategy” rather than political reasons.

New Direction for MSNBC

The cancellation of “The ReidOut” is part of a larger slate of programming changes at MSNBC. The network is reportedly considering replacing Reid with a panel of three anchors, including Symone Sanders Townsend, Michael Steele, and Alicia Menendez. This move signals MSNBC’s ambition to recalibrate its content strategy and reconnect with audiences.

Other 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. These shifts represent the first major changes implemented by Kutler since becoming president of MSNBC, as she aims to strengthen the liberal network’s stance and boost ratings.

Controversy Surrounds Decision

The cancellation of Reid’s show has not been without controversy. Former MSNBC host Keith Olbermann criticized the decision, calling it “racist” and suggesting 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. 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.