The recent cancellation of Joy Reid’s show, “The ReidOut,” by MSNBC has ignited a firestorm of debate and criticism, highlighting what many perceive as a misguided and detrimental decision by the network. Citing declining viewership as the primary reason, MSNBC’s move has been met with significant backlash from both media personalities and the public, raising questions about the network’s commitment to diverse voices and the true motivations behind such programming changes.
A Questionable Justification
MSNBC attributed the cancellation to a notable decline in ratings, with “The ReidOut” averaging 973,000 total viewers in February 2025, a 28% decrease from the previous year . However, critics argue that this rationale is inconsistent, especially when juxtaposed with other programs experiencing similar or worse ratings yet remaining on air. For instance, “Morning Joe,” hosted by Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, has faced its own struggles with viewership, particularly following their controversial visit to Mar-a-Lago. Despite these challenges, the show continues to occupy its time slot, prompting accusations of double standards within the network’s programming decisions.
Support for Joy Reid
The decision to cancel Reid’s show has not only sparked criticism but also galvanized a wave of support from fellow journalists and media figures. Rachel Maddow, a prominent MSNBC anchor, publicly condemned the move, emphasizing the negative impact on diversity among prime-time hosts . Former MSNBC host Tiffany Cross also voiced her disapproval, urging Black viewers to boycott the network in response to what she perceives as a pattern of sidelining African American voices .
Megyn Kelly’s Controversial Remarks
Amid the controversy, former Fox News host Megyn Kelly made disparaging comments about Reid’s departure, referring to her as “the absolute worst person on television” . These remarks were met with sharp rebuke from various quarters, including journalist Don Lemon, who criticized Kelly for her insensitivity and highlighted her own history of controversial statements . Kelly’s comments have been widely condemned as opportunistic and lacking empathy, further fueling the discourse surrounding Reid’s exit.
Implications for Diversity and Representation
The cancellation of “The ReidOut” raises significant concerns about MSNBC’s dedication to fostering diverse perspectives within its programming. Reid, who has been a prominent Black female voice in prime-time news, brought unique insights and representation to the network. Her removal, especially in the context of other non-white hosts being dismissed, suggests a troubling trend that could alienate a substantial segment of the audience and undermine the network’s credibility in promoting inclusivity.
A Misstep by MSNBC
In light of these developments, many view MSNBC’s decision as a profound misstep. By prioritizing short-term ratings over the value of diverse voices, the network risks not only its reputation but also the trust and loyalty of its viewership. The outpouring of support for Joy Reid underscores the importance of her presence in media and serves as a poignant reminder of the need for representation in journalism. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it is imperative for networks like MSNBC to reflect the diversity of their audience and uphold the principles of inclusive and equitable reporting.
