Overview:
MSNBC will rebrand as MS NOW (“My Source News Opinion World”) as Comcast readies to spin off its cable networks under a new company, Versant. The move includes retiring the legendary NBC peacock logo and expanding news operations—signaling a strategic pivot toward independence and growth.
New York, August 18, 2025 — In a major shift for cable news, MSNBC is rebranding to MS NOW—short for My Source News Opinion World. This change comes amid Comcast’s planned spinoff of NBCUniversal’s cable networks into a new entity called Versant. This move positions the channel for a post-parent-company identity.
👉 Source: Reuters
As part of the rebrand, the network will also retire the iconic NBC peacock logo, symbolizing its exit from the established NBC family. “The future of our success is not tied to remaining within the NBC family and using the peacock as part of our identity,” said MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler in an internal memo.
👉 Source: Reuters
The timing aligns with broader changes at Comcast, which plans to transfer networks like CNBC and USA into Versant. Comcast will retain the NBC broadcast brand and content studios to support its Peacock streaming service.
👉 Source: Reuters
Kutler emphasized that this rebrand is more than cosmetic: MS NOW is ramping up news operations by adding dozens of journalists. They are opening recruitment for nearly 100 roles—an investment in editorial independence ahead of the separation.
👉 Source: Reuters
Why It Matters:
- Editorial Independence: Dropping the peacock represents MSNBC’s bid to redefine its brand and newsroom autonomy.
- Strategic Realignment: A departure from NBC provides flexibility for Versant to shape its direction.
- Growth Trajectory: Expanded hiring suggests confidence and a stronger future for what was once a Microsoft-NBC joint venture.
Editor’s Disclaimer
This article is a reporting summary created by Presence News based on publicly available information from Reuters. Presence News is not affiliated with MSNBC, MS NOW, Comcast, or NBCUniversal.
