MS NOW Will Expand Video Podcasts on Weekends, Alex Witt Plans Exit

The integration of creator media and mainstream TV news is becoming increasingly seamless, with MS NOW making significant changes to its weekend schedule starting on June 28. The network will shift away from live, hosted hours in the evenings and instead focus on taped video podcasts, including popular programs from Crooked Media and podcasts hosted by Nicolle Wallace and Chris Hayes. This move is part of a broader strategy to partner with content creators and increase the network’s presence in the podcasting space.

As a result of these changes, the new series “The Weekend: Primetime” will be cancelled, and host Antonia Hylton will take over anchoring duties on weekends from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Long-time anchor Alex Witt will be departing later in the year, marking the end of an era for the network. However, familiar faces like Ayman Mohyeldin, Catherine Rampell, and Elise Jordan are expected to remain with MS NOW.

Despite the shift to taped programming, MS NOW will continue to be staffed for breaking news coverage during evening hours on weekends. The network also has a partnership with Sky News for international coverage. The decision to focus on podcasts and taped content is in line with industry trends, as more news and entertainment outlets are leveraging podcasts to engage audiences and provide in-depth analysis on various topics.

MS NOW’s embrace of podcasts has been well-received by viewers, particularly the “Crooked on MS NOW” show, which has attracted a new audience to the network. The network’s foray into podcasts reflects a broader trend in the media industry, with traditional companies forming alliances with independent journalists and creators to reach new audiences.

Looking ahead, MS NOW is set to launch a direct-to-consumer streaming service later this year, further expanding its reach and engagement with viewers. While these changes may result in some staffing reductions, the network is actively encouraging affected employees to explore new opportunities within the organization.

As MS NOW transitions to a new era of content delivery, it is important to recognize the contributions of long-time anchors like Alex Witt, who has been a trusted presence for audiences over the years. Witt’s departure marks the end of an era for the network, but MS NOW is poised to continue evolving and adapting to the changing media landscape.