Joy Reid’s Final MSNBC Sign-Off Sparks Controversy

A Heated Farewell

Former MSNBC host Joy Reid delivered a fiery final monologue during her last episode of The ReidOut, sparking both praise and backlash. During her send-off, she warned about the dangers of “fascism” and encouraged viewers to resist political forces they disagree with.

At the beginning of her speech, Reid stated, “When you are in the midst of a crisis, and specifically a crisis of democracy, how do you resist?” She urged her audience to keep fighting back, drawing comparisons to historical movements like the fight against slavery and the civil rights movement.

Her closing words were a six-word vow: “Just keep saying no. Keep resisting.”

Mixed Reactions

Reid’s comments drew criticism from supporters of former President Donald Trump, who labeled her remarks as “bitter” and “fear-mongering.” Some critics on social media mocked her for pushing what they called an outdated narrative, while others criticized her choice of attire for the episode.

One user on X wrote, “That’s why she lost her job. The fascism thing has run its course.” Another added, “Good riddance! She definitely does not add value to this country or society.”

On the other hand, Reid’s supporters were outraged by MSNBC’s decision to cancel her show. One viewer commented, “Absolutely reprehensible to fire Joy Reid. This is an example of squashing freedom of speech.”

Rachel Maddow Defends Reid

MSNBC’s top-rated host Rachel Maddow didn’t hold back her disappointment. She criticized the network’s leadership live on air, calling Reid’s departure a “bad mistake.”

“In all of the jobs I have had, in all of the years I have been alive, there is no colleague for whom I have had more affection and more respect than Joy Reid,” Maddow said.

“I don’t 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.”

Despite Maddow’s protest, MSNBC’s leadership, led by new president Rebecca Kutler, has continued reshuffling its lineup in response to declining post-election ratings.

Changes at MSNBC

Reid’s exit is just one of several major shake-ups at NBC Universal. On the same day, NBC Nightly News anchor Lester Holt announced his departure, and the Today show recently lost longtime co-host Hoda Kotb.

With The ReidOut now canceled, MSNBC will rotate several hosts in the 7 p.m. slot, including Symone Sanders Townsend, former RNC chairman Michael Steele, and Alicia Menendez.

Summary

Joy Reid’s final episode on MSNBC was marked by a controversial monologue about resisting political threats. While some praised her message, critics slammed it as divisive. Rachel Maddow passionately defended Reid, criticizing MSNBC’s decision to let her go. With MSNBC undergoing a leadership change, Reid’s departure is part of a broader shift affecting several top hosts.