Lawrence O’Donnell’s Return Delayed Amid Health Issues and Contract Negotiations

NEW YORK, NY — Veteran MSNBC anchor Lawrence O'Donnell has been sidelined from his nightly show, The Last Word, for longer than initially expected due to health issues. O’Donnell, who was previously scheduled to take just a week off, announced via X on March 27 that he developed an infection, extending his break.

In his update, O’Donnell expressed gratitude for his colleagues who filled in during his absence, stating, “Thanks to @msnbc team @CapehartJ @AliVelshi @jrpsaki for filling in for me. My week off turned into 2 weeks after I picked up an infection. Expect to be back @TheLastWord next week.” However, he was notably absent from the March 31 episode, where Symone Sanders served as the guest host.

O’Donnell’s health concerns prompted an outpouring of support from fans on social media. One user wrote, “Feel better @Lawrence, see you next week,” while another added, “I’m glad that you are taking care of yourself. We all look forward to seeing you back when you’re ready.” With many sharing their well wishes, the 73-year-old anchor has received encouragement during this time away from the screen.

This unexpected hiatus comes on the heels of O’Donnell’s earlier announcement regarding taking time off due to exhaustion. On March 12, he informed viewers, “I thought it was day 92 of Trump’s presidency. It turns out it’s day 52, and I’m exhausted at day 52, and so, I’m going to take next week off.” He also revealed that he wants to be fully present as the nation approaches the 100 days mark of the new administration.

As O’Donnell deals with health challenges, it appears his return might also coincide with ongoing discussions about his contract. Sources indicate that O’Donnell is seeking a more favorable deal, akin to that of his colleague Rachel Maddow, who reportedly operates on a reduced schedule.

The insider explained, “Lawrence has been trying to renegotiate his contract, and what he wants is what internally everyone’s calling ‘The Rachel Maddow Deal.’” This deal supposedly would involve him working one day a week and recording a podcast—a scenario experts say is unlikely due to the current media landscape.

Amid corporate restructuring at NBCUniversal, there are indications of tensions between network executives and anchors. O’Donnell’s ongoing health and contractual issues could impact his role at MSNBC, especially with Maddow returning to her more intense schedule after her commitment to cover the administration’s initial 100 days.

While O’Donnell’s absence raises questions about his future, MSNBC representatives have denied reports of impending changes, insisting they are focusing on maintaining a full-time anchor team. As the network navigates these challenges, viewers hope for O’Donnell’s swift recovery and return to The Last Word.