A storm is brewing at MSNBC, and it’s not the kind of drama they typically report. Several of the network’s biggest stars have made sudden exits, leaving viewers and insiders alike questioning what’s really going on behind the scenes. With ratings plummeting and leadership changes underway, MSNBC finds itself at a crossroads.

📉 Ratings Freefall: A Network in Crisis

Since the November 2024 election, MSNBC has experienced a significant decline in viewership. The network’s primetime audience has dropped by 46%, with flagship programs like The ReidOut and The Rachel Maddow Show seeing substantial losses. In January 2025, Maddow’s show averaged 1.7 million total viewers, a stark contrast to the 2.3 million viewers it attracted before the election .

This decline has been attributed to a combination of factors, including the return of Donald Trump to the White House and a broader shift in viewer preferences. As traditional cable news faces competition from digital platforms and podcasts, MSNBC’s once-loyal audience appears to be splintering .

🎙️ Talent Exodus: Who’s Leaving and Why?

The shakeup at MSNBC has been swift and dramatic. Joy Reid’s The ReidOut was abruptly canceled in February 2025, leading to an emotional farewell that highlighted concerns over diversity and representation within the network . Alex Wagner’s 9 p.m. slot was also eliminated, with Jen Psaki, former White House press secretary, stepping in to fill the void .

Other notable departures include Ayman Mohyeldin, whose weekend evening show was canceled, and Katie Phang, who transitioned into a legal correspondent role . These changes have left many questioning the network’s commitment to its diverse roster of talent.

📺 Viewer Backlash: A Network in Turmoil

The rapid changes at MSNBC have not gone unnoticed by its audience. Many viewers have expressed disappointment and frustration over the cancellations, particularly those involving non-white hosts. Rachel Maddow, a longtime anchor at the network, condemned the removal of Reid’s show, calling it “indefensible” and highlighting the lack of diversity in the decision-making process

This backlash has been reflected in the ratings, with MSNBC’s audience continuing to decline as viewers seek alternative sources for their news. The network’s leadership is under increasing pressure to address these concerns and restore trust with its audience.

🔄 Leadership Changes: A New Direction?

In the wake of these challenges, MSNBC has seen changes in its leadership. Rashida Jones stepped down as president in early 2025, paving the way for Rebecca Kutler to take the helm . Kutler has signaled a shift in strategy, focusing on restructuring the network’s programming and aligning it more closely with the current political landscape.

However, these changes have not been without controversy. The decision to cancel several high-profile shows has raised questions about the network’s priorities and its commitment to diverse voices. As Kutler navigates these challenges, the future direction of MSNBC remains uncertain.

🔍 What’s Next for MSNBC?

As MSNBC grapples with declining ratings, talent departures, and leadership changes, the network faces a critical juncture. The decisions made in the coming months will determine whether MSNBC can regain its footing or if it will continue to struggle in an increasingly fragmented media landscape.

For viewers, the evolving situation at MSNBC serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by traditional media outlets in adapting to a rapidly changing environment. As the network works to redefine itself, only time will tell if it can reclaim its position as a leading source of news and analysis.