MSNBC’s controversial host Joy Reid’s show “The Reidout” gets the axe, sparking debate on media polarization and ratings.
Quick Takes
- Joy Reid’s daily show “The Reidout” will end in February 2025 due to declining ratings.
- MSNBC’s primetime audience has dropped 41% since 2024.
- President Trump criticized Reid and MSNBC following the cancellation news.
- Reid’s departure highlights ongoing challenges in political discourse and media polarization.
MSNBC Pulls the Plug on “The Reidout”
In a significant shake-up at MSNBC, the network has decided to cancel Joy Reid’s daily show “The Reidout” effective February 2025. This move comes as part of a broader strategy by new MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler to boost the network’s sagging ratings. The 7 p.m. ET time slot, currently occupied by Reid, will be replaced with a panel show co-hosted by Symone Sanders Townsend, Alicia Menendez, and Michael Steele.
The decision to end Reid’s show comes amid a challenging period for MSNBC. The network experienced its lowest-rated January in history for the crucial 25-54 demographic, which is vital for attracting advertisers. Overall, MSNBC’s primetime audience has plummeted by 41% since 2024, signaling a broader crisis for the left-leaning news outlet.
Reid’s Controversial Legacy
Throughout her tenure at MSNBC, Joy Reid has been a lightning rod for controversy, often making headlines for her provocative statements and unapologetic approach to discussing hot-button issues. Her commentary on race, immigration, and political violence, coupled with her sharp criticism of the Republican party and President Donald Trump, frequently ignited debates and drew significant backlash.
“Part of the price of MAGAdom, particularly if you are a person of color is to take the humiliation, you know? I mean, Nikki Haley was not even invited, she was ostentatiously disinvited from this convention. Yet, she still said, ‘I pledge all my delegates to Trump,'” – Joy Reid
Reid’s controversial opinions and statements have included conspiracy theories and inflammatory comments on political figures.
Trump Responds to Reid’s Departure
President Donald Trump wasted no time in responding to the news of Reid’s show cancellation. In a characteristically fiery post on Truth Social, Trump criticized both Reid and MSNBC, describing the host as “one of the least talented people” in television.
Trump’s criticism extended beyond Reid to include other MSNBC personalities and the network’s parent company, NBC. He accused the network of being “nothing more than an illegal arm of the Democrat Party” and called for financial penalties for what he perceives as damage done to the country.
The Broader Impact on Media Landscape
Reid’s departure from MSNBC underscores the ongoing challenges faced by traditional media outlets in an increasingly fragmented and polarized media landscape. As viewers increasingly turn to alternative sources for news and commentary, established networks like MSNBC are struggling to maintain their audience share and relevance.
In response to these challenges, MSNBC is making strategic changes. Rachel Maddow, another prominent host, will resume a five-night weekly schedule in an attempt to attract viewers. These moves reflect the network’s efforts to adapt to changing viewer preferences and combat declining ratings.
As Joy Reid prepares to leave her daily show, her impact on political discourse and media polarization remains a subject of debate. While her bold perspectives have earned her a dedicated following, they have also contributed to the increasingly divisive nature of political commentary in the media. The cancellation of “The Reidout” marks the end of an era at MSNBC and signals a potential shift in the network’s approach to political coverage.
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’
