Gambiaj.com – (New York, United States) – MSNBC anchor Rachel Maddow has strongly criticized the network’s decision to cancel The ReidOut and part ways with host Joy Reid, calling the move a “bad mistake” and “indefensible.” Maddow made her remarks on Monday night during her show, voicing deep concern over the impact of the decision on both Reid and the staff working behind the scenes.

“I do not want to lose her as a colleague here at MSNBC. And, personally, I think it is a bad mistake to let her walk out the door,” Maddow said. “It is not my call, and I understand that. But that’s what I think.”

Maddow also took issue with the network’s handling of the transition, particularly its directive that The ReidOut staff must reapply for their positions. “It’s not the right way to treat people, and it’s inefficient, and it’s unnecessary,” she stated, emphasizing that the move creates instability and anxiety among employees.

Concerns Over Diversity and Job Security

Maddow further expressed unease about the broader implications of the changes at MSNBC, particularly regarding diversity in prime-time programming. She noted that both non-white hosts in prime time—Joy Reid and weekend host Katie Phang—are losing their shows.

“That feels worse than that, no matter who replaces them. That feels indefensible, and I do not defend it,” Maddow said.

She also highlighted the impact on the production teams behind the affected shows, describing the mass job insecurity as unprecedented within the network. “Dozens of producers and staffers, including some of the most experienced and talented producers in the building, are facing being laid off,” she warned.

Joy Reid Responds with ‘Anger, Rage, and Hurt’

Reid, who hosted The ReidOut since 2020, responded emotionally to the cancellation, describing a mix of “anger, rage, disappointment, and hurt.” She shared her reaction during a video call with advocacy group Win for Black Women, saying she also felt guilt over her team losing their jobs.

“I try not to cry on TV, and I think [this Zoom call] is kind of like me on TV, so I apologize,” she said.

Despite her departure, Reid’s role in shaping MSNBC’s political coverage over the years has been widely recognized. Her show, which aired at 7 p.m., focused on race, politics, and social justice issues, attracting a dedicated audience.

MSNBC’s Leadership Shakeup

The cancellation of The ReidOut and Phang’s show comes amid major leadership changes at MSNBC. Rebecca Kutler, who took over as MSNBC president last month, has outlined a new vision for the network, which includes reshuffling prime-time programming and staffing key leadership positions.

Kutler, who previously played a role in developing Inside with Jen Psaki and The Weekend, is seeking to establish an MSNBC Washington Bureau and expand the network’s correspondent team. Reports indicate she is looking to recruit talent from outlets such as The Washington Post and Politico, with names like Eugene Daniels and NYU law professor Melissa Murray reportedly under consideration.

While the network has promoted The Weekend hosts Symone Sanders Townsend, Michael Steele, and Alicia Menendez to prime time, critics argue that MSNBC’s recent decisions have come at the expense of experienced journalists like Reid and Phang.

Maddow, in her closing remarks, urged MSNBC to prioritize fairness and respect for its employees amid the transition. “Finding good people, good colleagues, doing good work with them, and then having their back—that we could do a lot better on. A lot better.”