Veteran news anchor Alex Witt, who has been a cornerstone of MS NOW for nearly three decades, has announced her intention to leave the network. The 65-year-old journalist has hosted the weekend afternoon show, “Alex Witt Reports,” and her departure is anticipated later this summer, as confirmed by PEOPLE.
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Witt joined MS NOW in 1999 and has enjoyed a distinguished career spanning over 27 years. During her time at the network, she has reported on a multitude of significant events, including the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Additionally, she has provided in-depth coverage of various election cycles and has reported from overseas, making her one of the most recognised faces in news broadcasting.
In 2011, Witt launched her own weekend show, “Alex Witt Reports,” which has become a staple for viewers during the weekends. Her contributions to the network have earned her a reputation as a trusted voice, guiding audiences through some of the most critical stories of our times.
Rebecca Kutler, the president of MS NOW, communicated the news of Witt’s upcoming departure in a memo to staff, emphasising her deep-rooted presence within the organisation. In her message, Kutler remarked on Witt’s remarkable career at MS NOW, highlighting the breadth of her experience and the numerous hours she has dedicated to the network. According to Kutler, this makes her the anchor with the most airtime in the network’s history.
Witt’s career has seen her cover monumental events that have shaped a generation. From the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster in 2003 to the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina and the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, she has consistently demonstrated dedication to journalism.
As MS NOW evolves its weekend programming, Witt’s departure aligns with wider changes within the network. Starting from June 28, MS NOW will forgo regular live broadcasts after 6 p.m. ET on weekends in favour of pre-recorded video podcasts, which will feature popular content from hosts like Nicolle Wallace and Chris Hayes, alongside shows from Crooked Media.
The new programming will include a variety of shows such as “Runaway Country” hosted by Alex Wagner and “Strict Scrutiny,” further diversifying the network’s offerings for weekend viewers. Additionally, the new series “The Weekend: Primetime” is set to conclude after June 27. Antonia Hylton, who is currently the co-anchor of “The Weekend: Primetime,” will take on the role of anchoring weekend afternoon hours.
Despite the rapid changes at MS NOW, several established hosts, including Ayman Mohyeldin, Catherine Rampell, and Elise Jordan, will remain with the network, ensuring continuity for viewers. Peter Alexander, a new addition, will anchor the weekday 11 a.m. hour, further enhancing the network’s weekday lineup.
As Witt prepares to conclude her tenure, the MS NOW management has expressed gratitude for her unrivalled contributions to the network. In the coming months, further opportunities will arise to celebrate her accomplishments and legacy within the industry.
In summary, Mike NOW bids farewell to an esteemed journalist, while simultaneously embracing a new direction for its weekend programming. With Alex Witt’s departure, the network turns a new page in its storied history, ready to face the future with fresh content and voices.