Who’s In and Who’s Out at MSNBC as Versant Spin-Off Looms (Updated)

MSNBC’s Transition to Versant: Key Talent Moves and Network Changes

MSNBC is on the brink of a major transformation as it prepares to officially separate from the NBCUniversal News Group and become part of the newly formed Versant media company later this year. This strategic spin-off by Comcast is reshaping the landscape of cable news, and MSNBC is actively hiring over 100 journalists while seeking new office and studio spaces to support its independent operations.

This transition means that many on-air personalities and executives have had to make critical decisions about their futures—whether to stay with MSNBC under Versant or remain with NBC News. The shift away from NBC News’ iconic 30 Rockefeller Plaza headquarters marks a significant change in the network’s identity and operational structure.

Below, we provide an updated list of the key figures who are staying with MSNBC and those who are remaining with NBC News following the spin-off. This list will be continuously updated as new developments arise.

Who’s Staying with MSNBC?

Several high-profile anchors and correspondents have committed to continuing their careers with MSNBC as it embarks on this new chapter:

– Rachel Maddow: Maddow secured a deal last fall to remain with MSNBC. She recently adjusted her schedule to a Monday-only show, maintaining her influential presence.
– Alex Wagner: Although her show was canceled in a recent programming reshuffle, Wagner remains with MSNBC as a senior political analyst.
– Jen Psaki: Psaki took over Wagner’s former prime-time slot, hosting the Tuesday through Friday 9 p.m. show.
– Katy Tur: Tur’s show, Katy Tur Reports, expanded to a two-hour block from 2 to 4 p.m.
– Chris Jansing: Continues to anchor Chris Jansing Reports weekdays from noon to 2 p.m.
– Ana Cabrera: Cabrera’s weekday show extended to a two-hour format, airing from 10 a.m. to noon.
– Katie Phang: Though her weekend show was cut due to the closure of MSNBC’s Miami broadcast operations, Phang remains on as a legal correspondent.
– Antonia Hylton and Elise Jordan: Both transitioned from NBC News to MSNBC, co-hosting the weekend 6 p.m. edition.
– Ken Dilanian: Joined MSNBC as a justice correspondent after serving as a justice and intelligence correspondent at NBC News.
– Jacob Soboroff: Returned to MSNBC as a senior national and political correspondent.
– Vaughn Hillyard: Named Senior White House Correspondent, bringing extensive political campaign coverage experience.
– David Noriega: Serving as a Los Angeles-based correspondent.
– Brandy Zadrozny: Senior enterprise reporter focusing on politics, technology, and extremism.
– Julia Jester, Ryan Reilly, Priya Sridhar, Alex Tabet, and Nnamdi Egwuonwu: All joining MSNBC from NBC News in various reporting roles.
– Joey Cole: Returning as vice president of planning for newsgathering.
– Diana Rocco, Hollie Tracz, Richard Hudock, Madeleine Haeringer, Brian Carovillano, Tom Clendenin, Jessica Kurdali, Meghan Rafferty, Claudia Meyer-Samargia, and Ian Sherwood: Holding key leadership and communications roles within MSNBC and the broader Versant organization.

These commitments highlight MSNBC’s intent to maintain a strong, recognizable talent base as it navigates its independence from NBCUniversal.

Who’s Remaining with NBC News?

Not all talent will be moving to Versant with MSNBC. Some prominent figures are staying with NBC News, continuing their roles within the established network:

– José Díaz-Balart: Although his MSNBC show ended with the Miami operations closure, Díaz-Balart remains the anchor of NBC News’ Weekend Nightly News.
– Steve Kornacki: Known for his election coverage on MSNBC, Kornacki will serve as chief data analyst for NBC News and NBC Sports.

These decisions reflect individual career priorities and the evolving strategic focus of NBC News as it continues to operate independently from the Versant spin-off.

What the Spin-Off Means for MSNBC’s Future

The separation from NBCUniversal News Group and integration into Versant represents a pivotal moment for MSNBC. The network aims to leverage its expanded team and new resources to deepen its journalistic impact and broaden its audience reach. The hiring spree, new studio spaces, and leadership appointments underscore a commitment to innovation and growth.

For viewers, this transition promises a refreshed MSNBC with a blend of familiar faces and new voices, delivering comprehensive news coverage and insightful political analysis. The network’s ability to retain key talent while attracting fresh perspectives will be critical to its success in a competitive cable news environment.

Strategic Implications for Talent and Programming

The talent shifts also indicate a strategic realignment in programming. With shows expanding or shifting time slots, MSNBC is recalibrating its schedule to optimize viewership and engagement. The departure of some weekend shows and the cancellation of others reflect a focus on core programming hours and high-impact content.

Executives and communications leaders moving to Versant highlight the importance of cohesive messaging and brand positioning during this transition. Their roles will be vital in managing public perception and ensuring a smooth operational shift.

Conclusion

As MSNBC prepares to join Versant and operate independently from NBCUniversal News Group, the network’s evolving lineup and strategic hires signal a bold new chapter. Key personalities are staying onboard, while others remain with NBC News, shaping the future of both entities. This transition is more than a corporate restructuring—it’s a redefinition of MSNBC’s identity and its role in the media landscape.

Stay informed about the latest updates on MSNBC’s spin-off and talent moves by following our ongoing coverage. Whether you’re a viewer, media professional, or industry observer, understanding these changes is essential to grasping the future of cable news.

Ready to keep up with the latest in media transformations? Subscribe to our newsletter for real-time updates and expert analysis on MSNBC, Versant, and the broader news industry.