NBC's decision to reshuffle its lineup has sparked a wave of reactions, with prominent host Rachel Maddow voicing her concerns publicly. Lester Holt will step down as the anchor of NBC Nightly News to take the lead presenter role at Dateline NBC. Meanwhile, Joy Reid's show, The ReidOut, will air its final episode this week, making way for a new panel show featuring The Weekend hosts of color at the 7 p.m. time slot.
Rachel Maddow expressed her disapproval on her talk show, labeling MSNBC's recent decisions as "indefensible." She described Joy Reid's departure as "hard to take" and argued that it was a "bad mistake" for the network to let Reid go. Maddow emphasized that despite the changes, viewers would still enjoy quality programming due to her "great colleagues."
The adjustments do not end there. Katie Phang's show, originally broadcasted from Miami, has been affected by the network shuffle. Although the channel is no longer airing from Miami, Phang will remain with MSNBC as a legal correspondent. While there are no widespread layoffs within the network, some positions are being reallocated to accommodate new programming needs. New roles will not be advertised externally before internal candidates have a chance to apply.
Rachel Maddow also took over the 9 p.m. weeknight slot from Alex Wagner during the first 100 days of Trump's administration. Wagner is shifting into a contributor role, and discussions are underway about who will fill her spot, with Jen Psaki being considered. Initially, MSNBC announced that Wagner would return with Alex Wagner Tonight in April, but this plan has since changed.
Maddow highlighted her discomfort with the network's parting of ways with two non-white hosts in primetime. She remarked that it "feels worse than bad, no matter who replaces them." Her sentiments reflect broader concerns about representation and diversity within media networks.
"Feels worse than bad, no matter who replaces them." – Rachel Maddow
Maddow also pointed out the unsettling nature of these transitions, noting the anxiety and disorientation it brings to those involved.
"In the meantime, being put in this kind of limbo, the anxiety and the discombobulation is off the charts, at a time when this job is already extra stressful and difficult." – Rachel Maddow
