Rashida Jones, the historic first Black president of MSNBC, has stepped down from her role as the network's leader. This change comes as MSNBC's parent company, Comcast, prepares to spin off the network and other cable channels into a new publicly traded entity. Rebecca Kutler, a key figure at MSNBC who joined from CNN in 2022, has been appointed interim president of the progressive news network, tasked with leading it through this transitional period.
Souce: MSNBC
Jones' tenure at MSNBC has been marked by significant growth for the network, especially in the face of an unprecedented and often turbulent news cycle. Under her leadership, MSNBC achieved record viewership while also making key investments in digital platforms and expanding its nonlinear business strategies. Jones recruited high-profile talent, including former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, and played a pivotal role in expanding the network's reach across digital, social, and audio platforms. Her departure raises questions about the future direction of MSNBC, particularly in light of political shifts with President-elect Donald Trump's anticipated return to power.
Comcast's decision to spin off MSNBC into a separate company has created an atmosphere of uncertainty for the network's future. Mark Lazarus, the future CEO of the new company, expressed gratitude for Jones' leadership in a memo sent to staff on Tuesday. He acknowledged her ability to guide the network through a turbulent news environment, noting the record audience engagement across MSNBC’s digital platforms. Lazarus also expressed optimism about working alongside Kutler as they chart the future of the network.
Rashida Jones speaks at the 2023 Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills.
Mike Blake/Reuters
Kutler, who has already made a significant impact at MSNBC, was promoted just last week to oversee all daytime programming in addition to her existing responsibilities, which include managing podcasts, live events, streaming services, and digital platforms. Lazarus described Kutler as a “catalyst for growth” and emphasized her role in shaping MSNBC’s future.
Kutler brings over 20 years of experience from her time at CNN, where she worked in various capacities, including launching multiple shows, overseeing programming, and managing talent. Her expertise in digital and multimedia platforms is expected to be an asset as MSNBC navigates the shifting landscape of news media. She will be working alongside Lazarus to build a new leadership team, with plans to hire heads for newsgathering and talent acquisition.
One of the key questions facing MSNBC is whether the network will shift its approach to political coverage, especially as Trump regains political power. With Jones’ departure, Kutler will be expected to steer the network’s editorial and programming decisions, including navigating any changes in how political content is presented to viewers.
Jones will be replaced on an interim basis by Rebecca Kutler. Source: MSNBC
Jones, reflecting on her time at the helm of MSNBC, expressed confidence in the network’s future, acknowledging the tremendous journey over the past few years. While she did not specify her next steps, her departure allows for a fresh chapter at the network, with Kutler at the forefront of guiding MSNBC through this period of transformation.
In the meantime, Jones' exit coincides with a significant programming shift for the network. MSNBC’s most prominent host, Rachel Maddow, is returning to the 9 p.m. hour five nights a week, focusing on Trump’s first 100 days in office. This move is seen as a strategic response to the network's recent ratings challenges, with Maddow, the most-watched personality on MSNBC, expected to bring back a significant viewership. In her absence, Alex Wagner had taken over the 9 p.m. slot, but Maddow’s return signals a recognition of the need to boost ratings as the network navigates a period of significant transition.
As the network moves forward, the question of whether it will remain headquartered in its iconic Rockefeller Center location after the spin-off is yet to be determined. However, Lazarus has made it clear that MSNBC will retain its brand and name, even as it becomes part of a new company.
As MSNBC transitions into its next chapter, the leadership of Rebecca Kutler will be critical in determining the network's direction. The upcoming changes will not only shape its programming but also its broader strategy in a rapidly evolving media landscape. With Jones’ departure and the spinoff on the horizon, all eyes will be on MSNBC as it adapts to the challenges and opportunities of the future.
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