MSNBC has cut Rachel Maddow’s salary by $5 million following a sharp decline in viewership and a broader reorganization by parent company Comcast. The salary reduction comes at a time when the network is grappling with its diminished audience, particularly after President-elect Donald Trump’s victory over Vice President Kamala Harris.
Maddow, who had previously earned $30 million annually for hosting “The Rachel Maddow Show,” will now earn $25 million over the next five years. In addition to her continued hosting duties, Maddow will also work on producing podcasts and documentaries for the network, diversifying her role as MSNBC seeks to adapt to changing media trends.
The situation at MSNBC continues to worsen as owner Comcast tries to rebrand the network following President Trump’s decisive win.
Rachel Maddow, the networks highest-paid propagandist, just had her salary cut by $5 million/yr for the next 5 years. pic.twitter.com/JPc7sSJKiT
— Bad Hombre (@joma_gc) November 21, 2024
The salary cut coincides with Comcast’s decision to restructure its cable operations, which will see MSNBC and other cable networks separated from NBC News. This move reflects the growing influence of streaming services and marks a significant shift in the company’s focus. As part of the restructuring, MSNBC could face rebranding, layoffs, and other changes as it adjusts to the evolving media landscape.
MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow’s salary reportedly cut by $5M despite being ‘ratings Viagra’ – as parent company Comcast deals with ‘difficult time’ https://t.co/obA4hhLFPM pic.twitter.com/akXpAEbKQY
— New York Post (@nypost) November 21, 2024
MSNBC executives have defended Maddow as a vital asset to the network, with one calling her “ratings Viagra” for her ability to boost viewership. There are also plans to feature her more prominently during breaking news events. However, the network’s ratings have continued to slide, with a 54% drop since Trump’s victory, according to reports.
BREAKING: MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow has had her annual salary cut by $5 million, amid reports that network staffers are “in a panic” over the network’s future, according to a report. pic.twitter.com/1z0ANYoXcW
— Leading Report (@LeadingReport) November 22, 2024
Critics argue that MSNBC’s increasingly liberal slant, particularly during the election cycle, has alienated large segments of its audience. Some insiders believe the network’s focus on liberal viewpoints created an echo chamber that led to its sharp decline in viewership.
As the network moves forward, its ability to adjust to the digital age and adapt to changing viewer preferences will be key to its future success.
