MSNBC Has a New Name Due to a Rebrand Following NBCUniversal Exit
MSNBC was originally founded in 1996, almost 30 years before the change.
Published Nov. 3 2025, 2:49 p.m. ET
The network formerly known as MSNBC is getting a revamp for the first time in almost 30 years. But after the network made the announcement, many questioned why MSNBC changed its name and what it means for the long-running news shows on the network. Programs like Deadline: White House and The Rachel Maddow Show are mainstays, and viewers look forward to them daily.
Sometimes, when a network merges with a new conglomerate, there is a catchy change to the name that keeps it similar enough for longtime viewers, but different enough to fall under the umbrella of new ownership. For MSNBC, the opposite sort of happened after it was announced that MSNBC would no longer be part of the NBC family, complete with the Peacock logo no longer part of the news network.
Why did MSNBC change its name?
According to CBS News, MSNBC changed its name to MS NOW following an exit from NBCUniversal. Instead, the cable news network will be part of Versant, a media company owned by Comcast. What does this mean for viewers who tune in regularly to MSNBC for news and commentary? Not much, other than a new name and possibly even a new way to hear the news.
Per The Hollywood Reporter, MS NOW stands for My Source for News, Opinion, and the World. The outlet reported that Versant CEO Mark Lazarus explained to the company what the new name means for what will no longer be known as MSNBC.
"This new name underscores the brand's mission to serve as the destination for domestic and international breaking news and the best-in-class opinion journalism," he said.
Mazarus added in his statement to employees, "While the name will be different, the brand's commitment to its audience will not change." The Hollywood Reporter also noted that MSNBC staff officially left the former Rockefeller Plaza NBC offices for a new space ahead of Versant's rollout, which was slated for early 2026.
It's all about differentiating itself from its original iteration when MSNBC was part of NBCUniversal. Since Versant acquired the network, the name change was necessary, since it is no longer part of NBC in any way. In August 2025, MSNBC reported that the change allowed the network to make its own path in the news, outside of the brand's former work with NBCUniversal.
Most MSNBC shows should remain the same on the network.
With a November 2025 launch of MS NOW and MSNBC no longer in service under its original name, those who watched MSNBC over the years for much of their news will still be able to do so with the rebrand in place. MSNBC reported that the hosts and journalists who were part of the network for years will still be part of it with its new name.
Longtime MSNBC host Rachel Maddow told Variety that she supports the move and the ability to be on a network that distinguishes itself from its former company.
"If there was ever a time for us to change our name, this is it," she said. "Because we're not just separating from NBC News in corporate terms, we're competing with them now. So I think the distinction is going to be good for us."