According to The Daily Beast, MSNBC anchor Ari Melber is considering leaving the network. Sources indicate he may be looking to join a competing broadcaster or establish his own independent media company. Melber has hosted "The Beat" since 2017.
"The Beat" is a successful program for MSNBC, consistently ranking second in its 6 p.m. eastern timeslot and performing well digitally. MSNBC declined to comment on the reports. The show is known for its frequent criticism of Donald Trump, including interviews with current and former administration surrogates.
While it’s unclear if the show’s focus on Trump is a factor in Melber's decision, it's worth noting that MSNBC executives were reportedly concerned about the outspoken anti-Trump commentary from former host Joy Reid on her canceled program, "The ReidOut," which may have contributed to her departure in 2025. The pressure on media outlets regarding coverage of the Trump administration is widespread.
Melber’s commentary, however, typically doesn't reach the same intensity as Reid's. Another potential factor is MSNBC's impending spinoff into Versant, separating it from NBC News as part of Comcast's restructuring. Reports suggest Melber has met with other networks, though their identities remain undisclosed.
Should Melber pursue an independent venture, he would join other high-profile figures who've left network television to create their own content, although many are still in the early stages of audience building.