MSNBC to Rebrand as 'MS NOW' Amid Criticism of Bias

Updated: 9/18/2025

What it is

MSNBC announced plans to rebrand itself as "My Source News Opinion World," or "MS NOW," later this year, as part of a transition to a new media company called Versant. This change aims to establish a distinct identity separate from NBCUniversal and NBC News, which will also include properties like the Golf Channel and CNBC.

Why it matters

This change aims to establish a distinct identity separate from NBCUniversal and NBC News, which will also include properties like the Golf Channel and CNBC
This announcement has drawn skepticism from various quarters, with some asserting that the rebranding will not alter the network's editorial stance
For example, during the spring of 2023, MSNBC participated in a media campaign suggesting that President Donald Trump's tariffs would lead to significant inflation and economic downturns
Additionally, MSNBC faced scrutiny following a $30 million defamation lawsuit settlement involving several of its prominent hosts
The lawsuit stemmed from allegations that hosts Rachel Maddow, Chris Hayes, and Nicolle Wallace falsely accused a Georgia doctor of performing unauthorized hysterectomies on illegal immigrants
As the rebranding process unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the changes will resonate with viewers or alter the network's reputation

Key facts

MSNBC announced plans to rebrand itself as "My Source News Opinion World," or "MS NOW," later this year, as part of a transition to a new media company called Versant
This change aims to establish a distinct identity separate from NBCUniversal and NBC News, which will also include properties like the Golf Channel and CNBC

Timeline & recent coverage

See related posts on our site; this explainer updates when new reporting appears
For deeper background, explore the sources below

Primary sources

https://www.fcc.gov/news-events/headlines