In a bold move signaling a new chapter for one of America’s leading progressive cable networks, MSNBC is set to rebrand as MS NOW, an acronym standing for “My Source for News, Opinion, and the World.” The announcement, made public on August 18, 2025, is part of a broader strategic overhaul as NBCUniversal (NBCU) prepares to spin out several of its cable networks, including MSNBC, CNBC, Golf Channel, GolfNow, and SportsEngine, into a new entity called Versant according to Deadline.
The rebrand marks a significant departure from NBCU’s storied history, as the spun-out networks will no longer carry the iconic peacock logo that has defined the company’s brand for decades. In a company-wide memo issued Monday morning, Versant CEO Mark Lazarus emphasized the decision: “The peacock is synonymous with NBCUniversal, and it is a symbol they have decided to keep within the NBCU family. This gives us the opportunity to chart our own path forward, create distinct brand identities, and establish an independent news organization following the spin.”
The rebranding of MSNBC to MS NOW reflects a strategic effort to carve out a unique identity for the network, distinguishing it from NBC News’ broader newsgathering operations. As part of the transition, MSNBC has been aggressively hiring for dozens of new positions in recent months, signaling its ambition to operate as a standalone entity under the Versant umbrella. The new branding aims to position MS NOW as a dynamic, viewer-centric source for progressive news and commentary, appealing to audiences seeking a blend of hard-hitting reporting and opinion-driven content.
MSNBC has also been hiring over 100 people as it will soon lose access to NBC News staff and need to have its own news room going forward.
USA Network sports programing will now fall under a new sports brand called USA Sports but the USA Network will keep its branding. The Golf Channel will now also fall under the USA Sports brand leaving the NBC Sports branding behind.
The decision to spin out these cable networks is part of NBCU parent company Comcast’s broader restructuring plan, with the Versant spinout expected to be finalized by the end of 2025. This move allows NBCU to streamline its portfolio while enabling Versant to operate with greater autonomy, tailoring its offerings to specific audiences. For MSNBC, the rebrand to MS NOW is not just cosmetic but a signal of its intent to evolve as a modern media platform in an increasingly competitive landscape.
As Versant prepares to take flight, the loss of the peacock logo and the adoption of MS NOW signal a transformative period for the network. With new hires, a fresh identity, and an independent path forward, MS NOW is poised to redefine its role in the media landscape, delivering news and opinion to a world hungry for clarity and insight.
Please follow us on Facebook and X for more news, tips, and reviews. Need cord cutting tech support? Join our Cord Cutting Tech Support Facebook Group for help. You can find Luke on X HERE.