MSNBC, the iconic cable news network, is poised for a significant transformation as its parent company, Comcast, prepares to spin it off into a new media entity called Versant. The network, a staple of 30 Rockefeller Plaza for decades, will soon bid farewell to its historic home as part of a broader restructuring that will also see CNBC separate from NBCUniversal News Group. The move marks a pivotal moment for MSNBC, which is set to adopt a fresh look and feel as it transitions to new leadership, facilities, and operational strategies under Versant.
Jeff Mayzurk, Versant’s president of operations and technology, shared an updated timeline with staffers, detailing the relocation plans. MSNBC’s temporary New York headquarters will be at 229 West 43rd Street, with the move slated for August 2025 according to AdWeek. The building, previously occupied by Buzzfeed and currently home to Snap Inc., was selected for its state-of-the-art studio and production facilities and its prime Manhattan location that will give the network a new look in its new studio. Internally dubbed “Summer Camp,” the temporary space will serve as a creative hub while Versant finalizes a permanent New York City headquarters.
The spin-off, announced earlier this year, will see MSNBC and CNBC form the core of Versant, a new portfolio of linear media assets under Comcast’s ownership. The name Versant, officially adopted in May after being referred to as “SpinCo,” reflects the company’s vision for “versatility, growth, and innovation,” according to CEO Mark Lazarus. The restructuring aims to streamline operations and position both networks for long-term success in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
In addition to the New York relocation, MSNBC’s Washington, D.C. office is undergoing a significant renovation. The network will occupy the 8th floor of 400 North Capitol Street, sharing the building with NBC News’ D.C. operations. Meanwhile, CNBC will remain at its longtime headquarters in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, which will double as Versant’s technical operations hub. Some of MSNBC’s technical staff will also be based in New Jersey, fostering operational synergy between the networks.
The move from 30 Rock, a symbol of broadcast history, is bittersweet for MSNBC staffers. The storied building has been home to the network’s studios and offices since its inception in 1996. However, the transition to Versant offers an opportunity to reimagine MSNBC’s identity, with plans for a refreshed visual style and innovative programming to engage viewers in a competitive market.
As Versant takes shape, industry watchers are closely monitoring how MSNBC will navigate its new chapter. The spin-off reflects Comcast’s strategic effort to adapt to changing viewer habits and the growing dominance of streaming platforms. With a temporary home secured and a permanent headquarters in the works, MSNBC is gearing up for a bold future under the Versant banner.