MSNBC is poised for a significant reshuffle in its evening programming, a move that reflects the changing dynamics of the network under the new leadership of Rebecca Kutler, who recently took over as president. According to sources, Symone Sanders-Townsend, Alicia Menendez, and Michael Steele are expected to take the weekday 7 p.m. slot from Tuesday to Friday. On Mondays, they will extend their programming to a two-hour block from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. This transition is likely to bring an end to Joy Reid’s tenure at 7 p.m. as she reportedly prepares to host her last show on the network shortly.
At the same time, Alex Wagner, who has held the 9 p.m. slot during the week aside from Mondays — which were reserved for Rachel Maddow — may be transitioned to a contributing role. Speculations are rife that Jen Psaki, the former White House press secretary, could take on at least one of the newly vacated hours on the network. Additionally, MSNBC is reportedly in discussions with potential new talents such as Eugene Daniels of Politico and Melissa Murray, a law professor, to bolster their roster of contributors.
This strategic shift comes as MSNBC grapples with declining viewership trends. Estimates suggest that the network is projected to lose about 10.5% of its subscribers by the end of 2025, continuing a trend seen across competing networks such as CNN and Fox News Channel. Kutler has articulated a vision for strengthening MSNBC’s journalistic foundation, including plans for a more autonomous newsgathering structure and a dedicated Washington bureau, all while maintaining the network’s progressive focus.
In recent months, the network has seen a rise in overall viewership, particularly in primetime, as the political landscape shifts with the return of Donald Trump to the White House. However, their audience levels still significantly trail behind Fox News Channel.
Kutler, who was involved in the creation of “The Weekend” with Sanders-Townsend, Menendez, and Steele, has indicated a commitment to fostering new talent and squeezing every opportunity for growth from MSNBC’s lineup, including examination of the daytime and weekend schedules. There is ongoing curiosity among staff regarding the future of weekday anchors, especially following the departure of Andrea Mitchell, who anchored a noon program for many years.
This restructuring signals a proactive approach by MSNBC to navigate the competitive landscape of cable news while adapting to the evolving tastes of viewers. Kutler’s initiatives could potentially strengthen the network’s programming and improve audience engagement in the long run.