Full Breakdown
MS NOW Announces Major Daytime Programming Changes
3/19/2026, 7:30:26 AM
Overview of the Changes
MS NOW, the rebranded version of MSNBC, is set to implement significant changes to its daytime programming lineup, effective June 2026. The network, which transitioned from MSNBC to MS NOW in November 2025 after being spun off from NBC Universal to become part of the new media company Versant, has seen a 25% increase in daily viewership since the rebranding. The upcoming changes include the departure of anchor Ana Cabrera and a reshuffling of hosts in various time slots.
Key Programming Adjustments
The network's president, Rebecca Kutler, announced that Stephanie Ruhle will move from her current role as the anchor of “The 11th Hour” to a new morning show focused on money and politics, airing from 9 to 11 a.m. Eastern. Alicia Menendez will take over the noon to 2 p.m. slot, while Chris Jansing will transition to the role of chief political reporter. Ruhle's departure from primetime will allow “Morning Joe,” co-hosted by Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, to revert to a three-hour format from 6 to 9 a.m.
In addition, Ali Velshi will replace Ruhle on “The 11th Hour,” with Jacob Soboroff stepping in to anchor Velshi's previous weekend show from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Eastern. Luke Russert will return to an on-air role, replacing Menendez on “The Weeknight.”
Official Statements & Responses
Rebecca Kutler emphasized that the programming changes are aimed at enhancing daytime ratings while maintaining a commitment to hard news. She assured staff that there would be no job reductions as a result of these changes, stating, “I expect to have more people working at MS NOW by the end of 2026 than we do today.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the network aims to improve its daytime ratings, some critics may question the effectiveness of these changes, particularly the departure of established anchors like Ana Cabrera. Cabrera expressed gratitude for her time at MS NOW, stating she is looking forward to new opportunities, though she did not disclose her future plans.
What's Next
The new programming schedule will be implemented in June 2026, with additional announcements regarding other daytime shows and a new anchor for the 11 a.m. Eastern hour expected in the coming weeks. The adjustments come ahead of the fall midterm elections, indicating a strategic move to bolster the network's political coverage.
Verbatim Quotes
- “more people working at MS NOW by the end of 2026 than we do today.” — Rebecca Kutler, President of MS NOW
- “truly grateful for my time at MS NOW,” — Ana Cabrera, Former Anchor at MS NOW
