MSNBC is making big changes to its programming lineup, leaving some of its most well-known hosts out of their usual time slots. The network has announced a major restructuring, which includes new shows, cancellations, and the addition of fresh faces. However, these shifts have sparked backlash, with critics accusing MSNBC of reducing diversity in its primetime lineup.
What’s Changing?
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Jen Psaki Takes Over 9 PM Slot
Former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki will now host MSNBC’s 9 p.m. show from Tuesday to Friday. Psaki, who joined the network in 2022, has quickly gained a following with her political analysis. -
Joy Reid’s Show Canceled
MSNBC has axed “The ReidOut,” the popular 7 p.m. show hosted by Joy Reid. Reid has been a prominent voice on the network, known for tackling racial and social justice issues. -
New Ensemble News Hour at 7 PM
Instead of replacing Reid with one host, MSNBC is introducing a panel format featuring Symone Sanders-Townsend, Michael Steele, and Alicia Menendez. The network says this change will bring a broader range of perspectives. -
Alex Wagner’s Show Ends
“Alex Wagner Tonight” has also been canceled. Wagner, a key figure in MSNBC’s coverage, will now transition into a senior political correspondent role.
Backlash Over Diversity Concerns
The restructuring has sparked debate, especially because MSNBC is losing multiple hosts of color. Alongside Reid and Wagner, other hosts like Katie Phang, Jonathan Capehart, and Ayman Mohyeldin are also seeing their shows end or being reassigned.
Rachel Maddow, one of MSNBC’s most recognizable anchors, has publicly criticized these decisions. She called the moves a “bad mistake,” saying they could weaken the network’s diversity of voices. Other critics, including former MSNBC host Keith Olbermann, have also slammed the changes, accusing the network of sidelining minority voices.
MSNBC Defends the Changes
The network insists it remains committed to diversity and is simply adjusting its lineup to stay competitive. It highlights that Alicia Menendez’s new role makes her the first Latina to co-anchor a primetime show on MSNBC.
MSNBC is also facing financial pressures, like many other news organizations, as traditional TV viewership declines. The network is shifting more focus to digital and streaming content, which may have influenced these programming decisions.
What’s Next for MSNBC?
As MSNBC moves forward with its new lineup, the network will have to balance maintaining its loyal audience while attracting new viewers. Whether these changes will help the network grow or alienate longtime fans remains to be seen.
One thing is certain—MSNBC’s shakeup is making waves, and people are paying close attention to what happens next.
