Joy Reid’s controversial tenure at MSNBC comes to an end as the network cancels “The Reidout” amidst plummeting ratings and a shift in programming strategy.
Key Takeaways
- MSNBC is canceling Joy Reid’s daily show “The Reidout” at the end of February 2025 due to declining ratings.
- The decision is part of a broader strategy by new MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler to improve the network’s ratings.
- MSNBC has experienced significant audience decline, with a 41% drop in primetime viewers since 2024.
- Reid’s departure has sparked reactions from various political figures, including President Donald Trump.
- The cancellation reflects broader challenges faced by MSNBC, including lawsuits and leadership changes.
MSNBC Axes “The Reidout” Amid Ratings Slump
MSNBC has made the decision to cancel Joy Reid’s daily show “The Reidout” at the end of February 2025, marking a significant shift in the network’s prime-time lineup. The move comes as MSNBC grapples with declining ratings and seeks to revitalize its programming strategy under new leadership.
The 7 p.m. ET time slot, currently occupied by Reid, will be replaced by a panel show co-hosted by Symone Sanders Townsend, Alicia Menendez, and Michael Steele. This change is part of a broader effort by new MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler to address the network’s ratings challenges and attract a wider audience.
Ratings Woes and Network Challenges
MSNBC has been facing significant hurdles in maintaining its viewership. The network experienced its lowest-rated January in history for the crucial 25-54 demographic, which is vital for advertisers. Moreover, MSNBC’s primetime audience has seen a staggering 41% drop since 2024, indicating a broader trend of declining engagement.
The network’s challenges extend beyond ratings. In January, MSNBC President Rashida Jones left the company amid these difficulties. Additionally, NBCUniversal, MSNBC’s parent company, recently settled a $30 million defamation lawsuit related to false claims made by MSNBC hosts, further complicating the network’s position.
Reactions to Reid’s Departure
The news of Joy Reid’s show cancellation has elicited strong reactions from various quarters, including President Donald Trump. In a characteristic response, Trump criticized both Reid and MSNBC on his Truth Social platform:
“Lowlife Chairman of ‘Concast,’ Brian Roberts, the owner of Ratings Challenged NBC and MSDNC, has finally gotten the nerve up to fire one of the least talented people in television, the mentally obnoxious racist, Joy Reid. Based on her ratings, which were virtually non-existent, she should have been ‘canned’ long ago, along with everyone else who works there. Also thrown out was Alex Wagner, the sub on the seriously failing Rachel Maddow show. Rachel rarely shows up because she knows there’s nobody watching, and she also knows that she’s got less television persona than virtually anyone on television except, perhaps, Joy Reid.”
Trump’s comments reflect the contentious relationship between Reid and conservative figures, which has been a hallmark of her tenure at MSNBC. Political commentator Charlie Kirk also weighed in, describing Reid’s show as “unwatchable.”
Reid’s Controversial Legacy
Throughout her time at MSNBC, Joy Reid became known for her provocative commentary and often controversial statements. She faced criticism for various remarks, including conspiracy theories and comments on political figures that some viewed as inflammatory.
Reid’s departure from MSNBC marks the end of an era characterized by intense political commentary and frequent controversy. As the network moves forward with its new programming strategy, the impact of Reid’s tenure on political discourse and media landscape remains a subject of ongoing debate.
Sources:
- Joy Reid Is Out At MSNBC: Here Are A Few Of Her Greatest Hits
- Joy Reid’s MSNBC show is CANCELED as ratings plummet
- Donald Trump Celebrates Joy Reid Cancellation—’Least Talented People’
