Joy Reid Breaks Silence on Shocking MSNBC Departure—The Emotional Rollercoaster of Losing Her Show and What’s Next for the Trailblazing Host

In an emotional and candid interview on the Win With Black Women podcast, Joy Reid opened up for the first time about the whirlwind of emotions she’s experienced since her unexpected departure from MSNBC, marking the end of her primetime show, The ReidOut. The veteran host, known for her bold and unapologetic take on political and social issues, shared her raw feelings about the sudden shift in her career, leaving fans and industry insiders alike wondering what’s next for the outspoken journalist.

For nearly three years, Reid’s voice has been a defining one on MSNBC. She used The ReidOut as a platform to confront some of America’s most critical issues, from racial justice to the immigration crisis, and she did so unapologetically. But despite the impact her show had, Reid now finds herself grappling with frustration, disappointment, and even guilt over the abrupt end to her time at the network.

Joy Reid bids farewell as MSNBC hosts compare her show's sudden  cancellation to 'losing a limb' during emotional segment

The Emotional Aftermath: Guilt, Gratitude, and Reflection

The loss of The ReidOut was not just a blow to Reid personally—it was a challenge to the entire team that had worked alongside her to bring the show to life. In her interview, she expressed a deep sense of guilt, revealing that she felt responsible for the job losses among her crew. “I’ve been through every emotion over the past several days,” Reid confessed, admitting that the impact on her team weighed heavily on her.

But it wasn’t just guilt that Reid felt. She also expressed an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the outpouring of support from both her colleagues and the viewers who have followed her throughout the years. While she still processes the loss, Reid shared how the love and encouragement she’s received have provided some peace amid the storm. “Where I really land and where I’ve landed on today is just gratitude,” she said, fighting back tears as she spoke about the community she built during her time on MSNBC.

A Bold and Unapologetic Career

Reid’s career has always been about more than just politics—she’s built a platform that amplifies the voices of marginalized communities, focusing on issues that often go underreported in mainstream media. From tackling racial injustice to addressing the plight of immigrants, Reid’s work on The ReidOut represented a commitment to speaking truth to power.

“I am not sorry that I stood up for those things, because those things are of God,” Reid stated, reflecting on the impactful topics her show covered, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza. It’s clear that Reid feels no remorse about speaking out on critical issues, even if it led to professional consequences. The risks she took were part of her mission to hold those in power accountable, and she remains proud of the work she accomplished.

MSNBC’s Network Overhaul: What Does Reid’s Departure Mean?

Reid’s departure comes at a time of major shake-ups within MSNBC. As the network reorganizes its weekday and weekend schedules, the 7 p.m. time slot that Reid once occupied will now be taken over by The Weekend ensemble. The new show, which will air Tuesday through Friday, will feature Symone Sanders-Townsend, Michael Steele, and Alicia Menendez. Menendez will also host a two-hour block from 7-9 p.m. on Mondays, making her the first Latina woman to host a primetime cable news program at the network.

In a statement, MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler thanked Reid for her contributions, acknowledging the impact she had on the network and the industry. “Her work has been recognized with several esteemed honors, including, most recently, the 2025 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding News Series,” Kutler said. The transition at MSNBC is significant, as Reid’s departure, alongside other high-profile exits, signals a shift in the network’s approach to programming.

MSNBC fires host Joy Reid : NPR

The Legacy of The ReidOut and Reid’s Team

For Reid, the loss of her show isn’t just personal—it’s about the team she built. She emphasized the importance of diversity in her staff and the collective mission they shared in tackling tough issues. “We were intentional. I was intentional in building my team,” Reid reflected, giving credit to those who helped make The ReidOut a success.

In the interview, she also took a moment to honor other Black female hosts who faced similar challenges, including Melissa Harris-Perry and Tiffany Cross. These women, like Reid, worked tirelessly to break through barriers in cable news, often finding themselves up against an industry reluctant to embrace minority voices.

Reid’s acknowledgment of her predecessors highlights the uphill battle that Black women in media continue to face—one that Reid has fought against for over a decade. Her departure from MSNBC is a reminder of the fragility of these positions and the resistance that still exists for women of color in the media industry.

Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for Joy Reid

While Reid’s future plans remain unclear, one thing is certain—she is far from finished with her mission to impact the world. With her extensive background in journalism and media, it’s almost certain that Reid will continue to use her platform to advocate for the issues she cares about. Whether it’s through new opportunities in media or a different kind of activism, Reid is bound to make her voice heard.

As for the fans who have supported her through the years, they can rest assured that Reid’s influence on the industry will continue. From her candid commentary to her unwavering stance on political and social issues, Reid leaves behind a legacy that will not easily be forgotten.

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for MSNBC?

MSNBC’s network overhaul is about more than just Reid’s departure—it’s part of a larger shift in the media landscape. As the network changes direction, the impact of her exit will be felt across the cable news industry. With new faces like Symone Sanders-Townsend and Alicia Menendez stepping into primetime roles, MSNBC is undoubtedly attempting to reposition itself in a way that reflects a changing media environment.

But for now, all eyes are on Joy Reid. As she transitions into this new phase of her career, one thing is clear: Reid’s influence will not be easily overshadowed. She has spent years giving a voice to the voiceless, speaking truth to power, and amplifying the issues that matter most.

Wherever she goes next, one thing is certain—Joy Reid’s legacy in journalism is just beginning, and her voice will continue to resonate for years to come.