MSNBC’s Primetime Revamp: Jen Psaki Lands Additional Airtime
Jen Psaki to Host Primetime Show on MSNBC
Former Biden administration press secretary Jen Psaki will expand her presence on MSNBC, hosting a new primetime program on Tuesdays through Thursdays. The show, titled "Inside with Jen Psaki," will air in the 9 p.m. ET timeslot, following the return of Rachel Maddow’s show to its once-a-week format.
Psaki’s show has been a success since its launch in 2023, becoming MSNBC’s most-watched weekend program. The decision to give her more airtime underscores MSNBC’s commitment to maintaining its liberal reputation.
Alex Wagner to Remain with MSNBC as Analyst
Alex Wagner, who previously hosted the 9 p.m. ET timeslot, will not return to primetime with Psaki’s expanded role. However, she will remain with MSNBC as a senior political analyst.
Shakeup at MSNBC Under New President
The primetime changes are part of a broader programming shakeup at MSNBC under new president Rebecca Kutler. Kutler has made several changes since her appointment earlier this month, including:
- Joy Reid’s "The ReidOut" canceled
- Ayman Mohyeldin’s "Ayman Mohyeldin Reports," Katie Phang’s "The Katie Phang Show," and Jonathan Capehart’s weekend programs canceled
- New show hosted by Symone Sanders-Townsend, Alicia Menendez, and Michael Steele to air in the 7 p.m. ET timeslot
MSNBC Consolidates Operations
As part of the shakeup, MSNBC is consolidating its production operations to New York and Washington, D.C. This has impacted shows like "The Katie Phang Show" and "José Díaz-Balart Reports," which were previously based out of Miami.
Future of MSNBC
The changes at MSNBC come amidst a challenging time for the network. MSNBC’s ratings have declined since the end of the Trump presidency. Additionally, parent company Comcast is planning to spin off several NBCUniversal cable networks, including MSNBC, into a new company called SpinCo.
MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler acknowledges the challenges ahead, emphasizing the importance of honesty and open communication with staff. Despite the challenges, Kutler believes the transition to a new company presents exciting opportunities for the network. The future of MSNBC will depend on its ability to adapt to the evolving media landscape and meet the needs of its audience.
Concluding Remarks
The primetime changes at MSNBC reflect a strategic shift to maintain the network’s liberal reputation. With Jen Psaki’s expanded role and the addition of new shows, MSNBC is signaling its commitment to providing a voice for its progressive viewers. As the network navigates the challenges of a new company and evolving media landscape, its future will depend on its ability to adapt and meet the needs of its audience.
