MSNBC is Now MS NOW: What the Big Rebrand Means for You

Get ready for a major shake-up in cable news! Msnbc is officially becoming Ms Now on November 15, 2025, ditching its iconic peacock logo as part of a huge company spin-off.

TL;DR

• MSNBC officially rebrands to MS NOW (My Source for News, Opinion, and the World) on November 15, 2025.
• The change is happening because of a corporate spin-off from NBCUniversal into a new, independent company called Versant.
• Your favorite shows, hosts, and channel numbers will mostly stay the same, but expect a fresh look and new on-screen graphics.

Big Changes Are Coming: MSNBC Becomes MS NOW This November

Hold onto your remotes, news junkies! A major transformation is hitting cable television this fall. After nearly three decades under the familiar NBC umbrella, MSNBC is officially changing its name to MS NOW (short for My Source for News, Opinion, and the World) on November 15, 2025. This isn't just a simple name tweak; it's a significant rebrand driven by a massive corporate shift that's set to reshape a chunk of your TV landscape. Get ready to say goodbye to the iconic NBC peacock logo on your favorite news channel and hello to a whole new era.

The move comes as MSNBC, along with several other well-known cable channels, is spinning out of NBCUniversal to become part of a newly formed independent company called Versant. Think of it as Comcast (the big parent company) reorganizing its family of networks. This spin-off, expected to fully launch by 2026, is designed to give these channels, including MS NOW, a distinct identity and the freedom to forge their own path, separate from NBC News and its streaming/film business. It’s all about creating a standalone portfolio that can operate more nimbly in today's ever-changing media world.

Mark Lazarus, the CEO of Versant, initially hinted that the MSNBC name might stick around during a January meeting. However, the decision ultimately landed on a full rebrand to signal this new independence. Rebecca Kutler, President of MS NOW, confirmed the November 15 date in a memo to staff, emphasizing, “Same Mission. New Name.” So, while the look and corporate structure are evolving, the core commitment to news and opinion journalism remains.

What Does "MS NOW" Actually Stand For? Unpacking the New Name

So, "MS NOW" isn't just a catchy, punchier name; it's an acronym with a clear mission. It stands for "My Source for News, Opinion, and the World." This full name isn't just a mouthful; it’s a direct statement of intent. The network says this new brand identity aims to underscore its mission: to be a go-to destination for domestic and international breaking news, paired with "best-in-class opinion journalism rooted in fact." Basically, they want to be your comprehensive source for understanding what's happening around the globe, from their perspective.

This shift away from the "NBC" in its name is a symbolic yet powerful declaration of independence. For years, MSNBC and NBC News shared resources, often relying on the same Washington D.C. coverage and on-air talent. However, that officially changed earlier in October 2025, with MSNBC (now MS NOW) building out its own robust newsgathering operation, including hiring new reporters and establishing its own standards team. They've also formed a global news partnership with Comcast’s Sky News, giving MS NOW access to 11 international bureaus, a significant expansion of its global reach and international reporting capabilities.

Your Favorite Shows and Familiar Faces Aren't Going Anywhere

One of the biggest questions viewers have is, "What about my favorite shows and hosts?" Good news! MS NOW executives have been very clear: the familiar and trusted hosts and journalists you tune in for will still be there. Shows like "The Rachel Maddow Show," "Morning Joe," "The Beat with Ari Melber," and "All In with Chris Hayes" are all expected to air in their usual time slots. Phew!

The network has reassured viewers that their mission and staff will remain intact despite the visual changes. This means you'll still get the same commitment to "justice, progress, and the truth" that the network has championed for decades. In fact, some current NBC News reporters are making the jump to MS NOW, reinforcing the channel's dedication to its independent newsgathering. New additions to the team include Maya Eaglin as an on-air reporter, Kevin Frey as Congress reporter, and Fallon Gallagher as a legal affairs reporter/producer, among others. You can also expect to see familiar faces like Ken Dilanian, Ryan Reilly, Vaughn Hillyard, Antonia Hylton, Jacob Soboroff, David Noriega, Marc Santia, Laura Barrón-López, and Brandy Zadrozny moving over to MS NOW.

Even the "MSNBC Reports" banner is getting an update. It will now be "MS NOW Reports," featuring individual anchor names like "Katy Tur Reports" or "Alex Witt Reports." So, while the name on the screen changes, the familiar format and faces you rely on are sticking around.

A Fresh Coat of Paint: Diving into MS NOW's New Look

With a new name comes a fresh visual identity, and MS NOW isn't holding back. Say goodbye to the iconic NBC peacock logo – that symbol is staying with the NBCUniversal family. Instead, MS NOW is rolling out a brand-new look. We've already seen hints of this through updated key art for shows that will air on the rebranded network, which started popping up on connected TV apps and user interfaces in late October and early November 2025.

The new aesthetic appears to center around a deeper blue color palette, accented with bold red and white. The logo Versant released in August 2025 showcases this, and the new key art for "Reports" programs reflects it beautifully. You'll notice unique bevel shapes in the graphics, seemingly inspired by the red stripes within the new MS NOW logo icon. These geometric elements, with their gentle curves and tighter corners, essentially create two horizontal parallelograms stacked slightly offset to match the overall angle of the icon. Even a sharper point-like shape, inspired by a negative version of the stripe elements, is present in the new art. The font for show titles is also getting an upgrade, matching the sans serif used in the "MS NOW" wordmark, with anchor names framed by thin red double chevrons to draw attention.

It's a modern, distinct design that aims to visually reinforce the network's new independent status. While it's not entirely clear if they'll overhaul lower thirds and other on-screen graphics right away, these new key art elements certainly suggest a cohesive and contemporary visual package is on its way, providing a fresh visual experience for viewers.

"If there was ever a time for us to change our name, this is it — 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."

— Rachel Maddow, Host

Beyond News: Versant's Big Picture Strategy for Its Networks

The rebrand of MSNBC to MS NOW is just one piece of a much larger puzzle for Comcast. The creation of Versant is a strategic move to establish a standalone portfolio of cable networks that can navigate the evolving media landscape. Other channels joining MS NOW under the Versant banner include CNBC (which will keep its name but also drop the peacock logo), USA Network, E!, Oxygen, SYFY, Golf Channel, SportsEngine, and GolfNow.

This corporate spin-off allows Versant to craft its own programming and licensing strategies, seeking fresh revenue streams and aggressively leaning into "live, appointment-driven programming." We're talking news, sports, and opinion content across multiple platforms. For instance, Versant has already made some big plays in the sports world:

• WNBA: An 11-year rights agreement starting with the 2026 season will bring at least 50 regular-season and playoff games annually to USA Network, including weekly Wednesday doubleheaders. This significantly increases the league's linear exposure.
• WWE Friday Night SmackDown: This second-longest-running weekly episodic show in American television history will continue on USA Network until 2029. It provides fresh, weekly live programming year-round, unlike traditional sports with offseasons, and consistently draws millions of viewers in key demographics.
• USGA Programming: While Peacock will remain the streaming home for all USGA content until 2032, championship coverage will be broadcast across Versant’s cable networks, demonstrating a split distribution model.
• NBC Sports Network Relaunch: This fall, Comcast plans to relaunch the NBC Sports Network to house some of its sports content, signaling a continued commitment to sports under the Versant umbrella.

This blend of traditional linear TV with evolving digital and streaming strategies highlights Versant’s goal to keep its legacy TV properties relevant in a fast-changing, streaming-first world. The idea is to create more cross-network synergies and blur the lines between traditional TV and digital distribution, essentially future-proofing these channels and positioning them as active rights buyers.

What the Public and Personalities Are Saying About the Rebrand

Any big change sparks conversation, and the MS NOW rebrand is no exception. While Rachel Maddow expressed support, noting the competitive advantage of separating from NBC News and even joking about the pronunciation (she admitted she has "no idea how to pronounce ‘MS NOW’" and "Versant" either), not everyone is thrilled.

Former MSNBC host Keith Olbermann took to social media to openly criticize the change, stating, "They can change it to LES MS for all it matters they still screwed up what I built for them." Viewers on social media have also shared mixed reactions. Some found "My Source for News, Opinion, and the World" to be a "mouthful" and wondered if the content would truly remain balanced. Others expressed concern that "MS NOW" might be confused with "Multiple Sclerosis" (MS), while some simply found the new name "not catchy at all." However, there's also an undercurrent of curiosity and hope that the fresh branding will lead to fresh content and renewed focus, with one user hoping "the content’s as fresh as the name!"

Despite the mixed public sentiment and internal jokes about pronunciation, executives are sticking by the new brand. Rebecca Kutler, in her memo, called it "a major moment for the company," acknowledging that it will "require buy-in from talent and viewers, as well as a multimillion dollar campaign to drive awareness." The network will begin running 15-second promo spots with top talent like Rachel Maddow to educate viewers, with a broader national marketing effort planned for early November 2025. This marketing campaign is unlike anything the network has done in recent memory, indicating a significant investment in introducing MS NOW to the public.

MS NOW's Guiding Principles: A New Editorial Compass

Beyond the name and the visuals, MS NOW is emphasizing a renewed commitment to its journalistic core. The network has announced that MS NOW will be "rooted in 10 core principles" that will guide its journalists and editorial decision-making. These aren't just buzzwords; they represent the foundation upon which the new brand aims to build its credibility and connection with viewers, especially in its new independent form.

These 10 tentpoles include:

• Integrity: Upholding strong ethical and moral principles in all reporting.
• Accuracy: Ensuring all facts and information presented are correct and verified.
• Fairness: Presenting information objectively and without bias, allowing for diverse viewpoints.
• Opinion: Clearly distinguishing opinion journalism from factual reporting, while ensuring it is well-informed and rooted in fact.
• Sources: Verifying and attributing all sources, maintaining transparency about where information comes from.
• Emerging Technologies: Adapting to and utilizing new technologies responsibly for newsgathering and delivery.
• Perspectives: Offering a range of perspectives and voices to foster a comprehensive understanding of issues.
• Transparency: Being open about processes, decisions, and potential biases.
• Independence: Operating free from undue influence, particularly from corporate or political pressures.
• "Who We Are": A foundational principle affirming the network's identity and values in its journalistic approach.

These principles underscore the network’s dedication to maintaining the trust of its audience as it embarks on this new chapter. It’s a promise that while the name might be different, the core journalistic values will remain steadfast, guiding its approach to covering breaking news, providing opinion, and reporting on unfolding global events.

Preparing for the Switch: What You Need to Know Now

So, what does this all mean for your daily viewing experience? Luckily, the transition is designed to be as smooth as possible for viewers. You won't need to hunt for a new channel number – MS NOW will remain on your current channel. If you use connected TV apps or streaming services, expect automatic updates to the app in most cases. Voice remotes should also be smart enough to respond to both "MSNBC" and "MS NOW" commands, directing you to the same place.

However, there's one small housekeeping item: if you rely on a DVR to record your favorite shows, it might be a good idea to check and update your provider's settings around November 15, 2025. This will ensure your recordings continue without a hitch as the network's branding formally changes. The MS NOW website (msnbc.com/MSNOW) will also provide additional information on how audiences can watch, stream, and engage with the new brand.

In an era where streaming often surpasses traditional TV viewership (streaming officially surpassed linear TV earlier this year), MS NOW and Versant are strategically positioning themselves for the future. By focusing on live news, sports, and compelling opinion, and blending cross-network synergies with fresh branding, they aim to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving media landscape. Whether you’re watching through cable, satellite, or live TV streaming services like Sling TV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, or DIRECTV, MS NOW wants to be your destination for what matters now.

Frequently Asked Questions About the MS NOW Rebrand When does MSNBC officially become MS NOW? MSNBC will officially rebrand to MS NOW on November 15, 2025. What does MS NOW stand for? MS NOW is an acronym for "My Source for News, Opinion, and the World." Will my favorite shows and hosts still be on MS NOW? Yes! All major shows like "The Rachel Maddow Show," "Morning Joe," and "The Beat with Ari Melber," along with their familiar hosts, are expected to remain on MS NOW in their usual time slots. Do I need to change my channel number to watch MS NOW? No, MS NOW will air on the same channel number as MSNBC. However, if you use a DVR to record shows, you might want to check your recording settings to ensure they update correctly around the transition date.

Sources

• Syracuse.com (Kelly Corbett)
• NCS (Michael P. Hill)
• The Desk (Matthew Keys)
• TV Insider (Raymond McCain)
• Staten Island Advance / SILive.com (Ann Marie Barron)
• The Hollywood Reporter (Alex Weprin)
• TVNewsCheck (Ted Johnson)
• Barrett Media (BNM Staff)
• Yakima Herald-Republic (syndicated content)