Veteran journalist and political commentator Joy Reid has spoken out for the first time since being let go from MSNBC,
revealing her emotional response to the network’s decision to cancel The ReidOut.
During a heartfelt discussion on the Win With Black Women podcast, Reid admitted to feeling a mix of emotions, from frustration and sadness to gratitude.
Joy Reid’s Emotional Reaction to Her Ousting
Reid, known for her outspoken stance on progressive issues, was candid about the whirlwind of feelings she has experienced since the news broke.
“I’ve been through every emotion… anger, rage, disappointment, hurt… guilt. You know, [a feeling] that I let my team lose their jobs,”
she admitted, acknowledging the broader impact of the show’s cancellation.
Despite her frustration, she made it clear that she remains unapologetic for the positions she took on The ReidOut. “I am not sorry that I stood up for those things because those things are of God,” she said passionately, referencing her vocal advocacy on issues such as racial justice, immigrant rights, and international conflicts.
Standing Firm on Controversial Issues
During the podcast, Reid reflected on the topics she covered throughout her time in primetime, emphasizing that she never hesitated to take a firm stance on critical matters. She specifically mentioned her coverage of the Israel-Gaza conflict, stating, “As the American people, we have a right to object… a right to object to little babies being bombed.”
Her unwavering support for movements like Black Lives Matter and immigrant rights made The ReidOut a unique platform for progressive discourse. However, Reid believes her willingness to tackle these issues head-on may have contributed to the show’s cancellation.
MSNBC Confirms Reid’s Departure Amid Ratings Decline
MSNBC President Rebecca Kutler confirmed that The ReidOut had been cut due to programming adjustments, which were driven by declining ratings and a broader restructuring effort. Kutler addressed Reid’s staff during a tense meeting, explaining that the decision was not influenced by external political factors.
“We are waiting to get a response from Joy and her team about how she would like to handle that,” Kutler said, referring to a possible farewell episode. However, she emphasized that the decision was based on “data analysis and programming strategy” aimed at repositioning the network for future success.
The ReidOut was not the only show affected by MSNBC’s overhaul. Other hosts, including Katie Phang, Jonathan Capehart, and Ayman Mohyeldin, were also removed from their time slots. Additionally, NBC News confirmed that longtime anchor Lester Holt would be stepping away from his role at Nightly News.
Network Struggles with Viewership Decline
MSNBC’s decision to shake up its programming comes amid historically low ratings, particularly in the key 25-54 demographic that advertisers prioritize. January marked the network’s worst month ever in that category, with viewership in both daytime and primetime plummeting.
Despite major political events dominating the news cycle, including controversies surrounding the presidential administration, MSNBC struggled to attract a substantial audience. Reports indicate that the network lost nearly half of its 25-54 demographic viewers compared to the previous year, with a 65% decline since the last election.
Even high-profile figures like Rachel Maddow, who returned to television five nights a week for the first 100 days of the new administration, were unable to turn the tide. MSNBC’s primetime numbers have fallen by 41% since 2024, with daytime programming seeing an identical drop.
Future of the 7 PM Slot and MSNBC’s Programming Shift
Following The ReidOut’s cancellation, MSNBC plans to fill the 7 PM ET slot with a new panel show co-hosted by Symone Sanders Townsend, Alicia Menendez, and Michael Steele. The move suggests the network is leaning toward a different approach to primetime programming in an effort to regain lost viewers.
The network’s overhaul comes at a time when traditional cable news outlets are facing increasing competition from digital media platforms and alternative news sources. MSNBC’s leadership hopes that the revamped lineup will help stabilize viewership and attract a broader audience.
Joy Reid’s Next Steps
As for Reid, it remains unclear what her next move will be. While she has not yet commented on whether she plans to return to television or explore other media opportunities, she made it clear that she remains deeply passionate about the issues she has championed throughout her career.
Regardless of where she lands next, Reid’s willingness to speak out on difficult topics has solidified her reputation as one of the most outspoken voices in progressive media. Whether she finds a new platform on television, digital media, or a different medium altogether, her impact on political discourse is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
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