The MSNBC news network is set to rebrand itself as My Source News Opinion World, or MS NOW for short. This change marks a significant step as the network separates itself from NBC, which has long been associated with its liberal programming. The rebranding includes the removal of the recognizable NBC peacock logo and is expected to take effect later this year.
NBC Universal initiated this name change following its decision to create a standalone company that includes several cable networks, including CNBC and E! Entertainment. While those networks will retain their names, MSNBC is looking to define itself more independently.
Founded in 1996 as a partnership between Microsoft and NBC, MSNBC has built a reputation for its progressive viewpoints, with prominent hosts like Rachel Maddow and Ari Melber leading the charge. However, the move to rebrand reflects a desire to establish a clearer identity and signal a shift in programming direction.
MSNBC President Rebecca Kutler acknowledged the challenges of changing such a well-known brand. She mentioned that this wasn’t an overnight decision, emphasizing the careful consideration behind it. “Our brand requires a new, separate identity,” Kutler said in a memo to her team. “We are now free to chart our own path and foster our unique news organization.”
Interestingly, while MSNBC opts for a new identity, CNBC will keep “NBC” in its name, citing its focus on business news as a reason for lesser overlap with MSNBC’s topics.
The relationship between NBC and MSNBC has always been complicated, especially given MSNBC’s perceived liberal bias. Former President Donald Trump has often referred to MSNBC as “MSDNC,” implying a close alignment with the Democratic party. Tensions have been brewing for some time, particularly as NBC News has taken steps to reduce its on-air talent’s involvement with MSNBC.
Despite the changes, MSNBC continues to attract talent from other news sources. Notable figures such as Jacob Soboroff and Brandy Zadrozny have recently joined the network, along with journalists from the Washington Post and Politico.
On a recent episode, Rachel Maddow expressed excitement about the transition, stating that the network will no longer compete with NBC News for coverage, allowing it to focus on its own reporting priorities. “We can apply our own instincts and focus on the stories we find important,” she noted.
As MSNBC moves into this new era, it remains to be seen how the rebranding will affect its viewership and overall approach to news coverage. This change is a bold step for a network eager to carve out its place in a competitive media landscape.
