Rachel Maddow, one of MSNBC’s biggest stars, has reportedly taken a $5 million pay cut, reducing her annual salary from $30 million to $25 million. The move comes as MSNBC grapples with changes in the media landscape and financial pressures, while its parent company, Comcast, prepares to spin off its cable networks.
Despite the reduction, Maddow remains a central figure for the network. Known as “ratings Viagra” for her ability to draw viewers, Maddow continues to host her flagship show on Monday nights and is also producing podcasts and documentaries under her lucrative contract with MSNBC.
The salary adjustment reflects the challenges facing traditional cable news outlets, as shifting viewer habits and the rise of streaming platforms force networks to rethink their strategies. Maddow’s influence, however, remains undeniable. Her Monday night program consistently outperforms other primetime shows on the network, making her an irreplaceable asset in MSNBC’s lineup.
Sources close to the network suggest that the move is part of a broader effort to manage operational costs while retaining top-tier talent. MSNBC executives are reportedly keen on keeping Maddow at the center of their programming, even as they navigate an evolving media industry.
Comcast’s decision to spin off several cable networks, including MSNBC, CNBC, and others, by 2025 adds another layer of complexity. The restructuring is aimed at separating the traditional cable properties from Comcast’s growing focus on streaming and studio production.
For Maddow, the pay cut doesn’t seem to be slowing her down. With her continued presence on MSNBC’s primetime schedule and her projects beyond the anchor desk, she remains a major player in cable news—despite the industry’s ongoing transformations.