In a move that has sent shockwaves through the media world, MSNBC has canceled The ReidOut, marking the end of an era for Joy Reid, one of the network’s most prominent voices. The decision comes amid a significant programming overhaul led by MSNBC’s new president, Rebecca Kutler, as the network seeks to reinvent itself and broaden its appeal. While Reid’s departure has sparked mixed reactions, it also raises important questions about the future of opinion-driven news shows and the evolving landscape of cable television.
Joy Reid made history as the first Black woman to anchor a primetime cable news show, hosting The ReidOut since 2020.
Over her tenure, Reid became a polarizing yet influential figure, known for her sharp commentary on politics, race, and social justice. Her show often resonated deeply with progressive audiences, providing a platform for underrepresented voices and amplifying issues central to the Democratic Party’s left wing.
However, Reid’s time on MSNBC was not without controversy.
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Critics accused her of distorting facts or advancing partisan narratives, while supporters praised her unapologetic advocacy for marginalized communities. Regardless of where one stands, there’s no denying that Reid’s presence brought energy and passion to the network, making her exit a notable moment in cable news history.
Why Was The ReidOut Canceled?
While MSNBC has not explicitly stated the reasons behind the cancellation, industry insiders suggest that declining ratings and shifting viewer preferences played a role. Opinion-driven shows like The ReidOut have faced increasing competition from digital platforms and podcasts, which offer more niche content tailored to specific audiences.
Additionally, MSNBC appears to be moving away from personality-driven programming in favor of a more balanced, news-focused approach. This shift reflects broader changes in media consumption habits, as viewers increasingly seek straightforward reporting over partisan commentary. The decision to cancel Reid’s show is part of this larger strategy to attract a wider audience and remain competitive in an ever-changing market.
With The ReidOut off the air, MSNBC is introducing fresh faces and revamped programming to fill the void. Among the new additions are Michael Steele, Alicia Menendez, and Symone Sanders Townsend, who will bring diverse perspectives to the network’s evening lineup. These changes signal MSNBC’s effort to modernize its brand and appeal to younger, more politically diverse viewers.
The network is also replacing Alex Wagner’s show, further signaling a complete transformation of its weekday schedule. Under Rebecca Kutler’s leadership, MSNBC aims to strike a balance between hard-hitting journalism and engaging storytelling—a formula designed to resonate with both traditional cable news watchers and digital-first consumers.
Mixed Reactions to Reid’s Departure
As news of The ReidOut’s cancellation spread, reactions poured in from across the political spectrum. Supporters of Joy Reid expressed disappointment, praising her groundbreaking role as a Black woman in primetime television and lamenting the loss of her unique voice. One fan tweeted, “Joy Reid broke barriers and inspired so many. Her absence leaves a void in cable news.”
Critics, however, welcomed the change, arguing that Reid’s show often prioritized ideology over objectivity. Some conservative commentators celebrated the cancellation, claiming it was long overdue given what they described as her tendency to misinform or distort facts.
Despite the divide, there’s universal agreement that Reid’s legacy extends beyond her time at MSNBC. She paved the way for greater representation in media and challenged norms within the industry—a feat that won’t soon be forgotten.
What’s Next for Joy Reid?
Though The ReidOut has ended, Joy Reid isn’t stepping away from the spotlight entirely. With a loyal following and years of experience under her belt, she’s well-positioned to explore new opportunities in media. Whether she ventures into podcasting, streaming services, or another platform entirely, Reid’s influence will undoubtedly continue to shape conversations around politics and culture.
Some speculate that Reid may focus more heavily on advocacy work, leveraging her platform to address systemic inequalities and champion causes close to her heart. Whatever path she chooses, her departure from MSNBC marks the beginning of a new chapter—not just for her, but for the network and its viewers as well.
Joy Reid’s exit from MSNBC underscores the challenges facing traditional cable news networks in 2025. As audiences fragment and turn to alternative sources for information, networks like MSNBC must adapt or risk becoming irrelevant. By canceling The ReidOut and reimagining its programming, MSNBC is taking bold steps toward securing its future—but whether these changes will resonate with viewers remains to be seen.
For now, fans of Joy Reid can take solace in knowing that her impact on journalism and representation will endure. And for MSNBC, this programming overhaul represents an opportunity to redefine itself in a rapidly changing media landscape.
Only time will tell if the network’s gamble pays off—but one thing is certain: the story of Joy Reid and MSNBC is far from over.
