New York (CNN) — Rashida Jones has announced her decision to step down as president of MSNBC, with Rebecca Kutler, one of her top executives, taking over as interim network president.
This leadership change comes as Comcast, MSNBC’s parent company, prepares to spin off MSNBC and other cable networks into a separate publicly traded entity.
Leadership Transition
Mark Lazarus, the incoming CEO of the spin-off, praised Jones in a Tuesday memo, acknowledging her efforts in guiding MSNBC through an intense and historic news cycle while achieving record-breaking viewership. Jones’s tenure also saw investments in digital expansions and nonlinear platforms.
In her parting note, Jones expressed pride in MSNBC’s progress:
“MSNBC is well-positioned for the future,” she said, while revealing that her decision to step down was made during the holidays.
Rebecca Kutler, who joined MSNBC from CNN in 2022, has been tasked with leading the network during this transitional period. Kutler was recently promoted to oversee MSNBC’s daytime programming and her responsibilities for podcasts, films, streaming, live events, and digital platforms.
A Historic Tenure
Rashida Jones, the first Black executive to lead a major television news network, became president of MSNBC four years ago. During her leadership, she introduced new talent, including former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, and drove initiatives to expand MSNBC’s digital presence.
Jones’ departure concludes months of speculation about her future, following reports that she was considering stepping down in early 2025.
Kutler’s Vision for MSNBC
Rebecca Kutler brings over two decades of experience, including a long tenure at CNN, where she produced programs, managed analysts, and played a key role in the development of CNN+. At MSNBC, she has been credited with driving growth across the network’s digital, social, and audio platforms.
Lazarus affirmed MSNBC’s brand identity during a call with staff, assuring them that the network’s name will remain unchanged following the spin-off. Kutler is expected to focus on building her leadership team, including appointing heads of newsgathering and talent.
Strategic Programming Moves
Amid this leadership transition, MSNBC is making strategic adjustments to boost ratings. Rachel Maddow, the network’s most prominent host, will return to her nightly 9 p.m. slot five nights a week for the first 100 days of Donald Trump’s presidency. Maddow’s return comes as MSNBC seeks to regain its audience following a period of declining ratings.
Alex Wagner, who had taken over the 9 p.m. time slot Tuesday through Friday, will shift to reporting in the field, focusing on the impact of Trump’s policies.
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Looking Ahead
As MSNBC transitions into a new phase as an independent entity, the network faces key challenges, including adapting to the changing media landscape and navigating its role in covering a Trump presidency.
With Kutler at the helm, the network aims to leverage its expertise in digital growth and programming innovation to ensure its continued success.
