After two decades of anchoring MSNBC’s flagship program, The Rachel Maddow Show, Rachel Maddow made a significant career shift in 2022, stepping back from her nightly role. In an exclusive interview with Vanity Fair, she opened up about the personal and professional factors influencing her decision.

Maddow’s decision to reduce her on-air presence was not abrupt but part of a strategic move to explore new avenues. She signed a multimillion-dollar contract to host her show once a week, allowing her to focus on long-form projects, including podcasts and documentaries. This shift was also driven by her desire to spend more time with her partner, artist Susan Mikula, and to engage in personal activities like fishing, which she finds therapeutic.

Behind the scenes, Maddow has faced significant health challenges. She has been open about her struggles with cyclical depression since her youth, describing it as an ongoing part of her life. Additionally, she has dealt with physical health issues, including a surgery to remove a cancerous skin growth from her neck in 2021. These health concerns have influenced her decision to scale back her demanding schedule.

Professional Tensions at MSNBC

Maddow’s departure coincided with a period of significant changes at MSNBC. In early 2025, the network underwent a major restructuring, leading to the cancellation of several shows, including those hosted by Joy Reid and Alex Wagner. Maddow publicly criticized these decisions, expressing concerns about the network’s direction and the treatment of its staff. She described the layoffs as a “bad mistake” and highlighted the lack of diversity in the new programming lineup.

The Future: New Projects and Continued Influence

Despite stepping back from nightly television, Maddow remains active in the media landscape. She continues to work on her podcast, Ultra, which delves into historical themes of authoritarianism and democracy. The podcast’s first season was well-received, and a film adaptation is in development. Maddow is also involved in producing documentaries and specials, leveraging her expertise to educate and inform audiences on critical issues.

Rachel Maddow’s decision to step back from her nightly role at MSNBC was influenced by a combination of personal health considerations, professional tensions, and a desire to explore new creative projects. While she may no longer be a nightly presence on television, her impact on political commentary and journalism continues through her new endeavors.