Rachel Maddow Renews Contract with MSNBC Amid Network Changes

Comcast‘s decision to spin off NBCUniversal’s cable channels, announced on Wednesday, has heightened concerns among talent and executives at MSNBC, particularly regarding the future and direction of the network. Notably, MSNBC has renewed its contract with prominent anchor Rachel Maddow. Sources indicate that Maddow was quietly signed on for a new deal earlier this fall, albeit for a lower amount than previous agreements.

According to reports from The Ankler, Rachel Maddow’s renewal involves a $5 million annual pay cut, reducing her salary from an estimated $30 million per year. An MSNBC insider confirmed the deal but disputed the figures reported, while the network itself declined to comment.

Maddow, a significant figure in cable news, reduced her appearances on «The Rachel Maddow Show» to once a week in 2022 to focus on other projects, including podcasts and side pursuits. Despite this change, she remains one of MSNBC’s key personalities, particularly during major events like Election Night.

Meanwhile, changes are anticipated at MSNBC due to Comcast’s restructuring. The spinoff affects MSNBC’s relationship with NBC News and may influence the network’s name and editorial orientation. The announcement follows a sharp ratings decline post-election; the network’s viewership reportedly dropped by 40% shortly after Donald Trump’s victory against Vice President Kamala Harris, according to Nielsen data.

Long known for her critical stance towards Donald Trump, Rachel Maddow saw her show’s ratings peak during the backlash against the former president, with viewership numbers soaring to over 3 million in 2020. Recent metrics, however, indicate a decline, with «The Rachel Maddow Show» averaging 1.4 million viewers since the latest election.

The controversy over Maddow’s content, often centered on anti-Trump narratives, is considered a factor in the viewership decline. Furthermore, MSNBC faces challenges with its coveted 25-54 age demographic, experiencing a significant drop in audience numbers from 236,000 to 118,000.

As Comcast restructures its assets and MSNBC undergoes potential shifts, the network is bracing for changes both in leadership and programming strategies. MSNBC’s future, including the role of its prominent figures like Rachel Maddow, remains closely watched by industry observers.