MS NOW Announces Programming Overhaul for 2026

MS NOW, the cable news network formerly known as MSNBC, announced a comprehensive overhaul of its weekday and weekend programming on Wednesday, with the changes set to launch in June 2026. The adjustments, outlined by network President Rebecca Kutler during a staff editorial call and in a follow-up memo, involve shifting anchors across dayparts, shortening select shows and introducing new ones to strengthen coverage ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

At the heart of the revamp is the flagship program Morning Joe, hosted by Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski. The show, which expanded to four hours in 2022 and has delivered strong ratings, will return to its original three-hour format from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. Eastern Time. This change addresses the hosts' previous concerns about the demanding schedule, freeing time for additional projects, including content for the network's planned digital subscription service. Jonathan Lemire, who co-anchored the 9 a.m. hour, will now join Scarborough and Brzezinski for the 8 a.m. segment.

The 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. slot will be filled by a new two-hour program anchored by Stephanie Ruhle, who is moving from her current role on The 11th Hour at 11...