MSNBC is about to undergo a name change in the coming days. This move follows its parent company, Comcast, spinning the channel off into a new company called Versant. Once MSNBC becomes part of Versant, it will no longer be linked to NBC and will eventually be rebranded. Here are details on its new identity.
Why is MSNBC changing its name to MS Now?
As the network will become part of Versant later this year, it will be rebranded to MS Now (My Source for News, Opinion, and the World). Reportedly, MSNBC fought to keep the name, but NBC refused. This is because they didn’t want to share the design and markings with the new company, leading to a logo and name change.
MSNBC President Rebecca Kutler recently addressed the identity change in a memo. She said, “During this time of transition, NBCUniversal decided that our brand requires a new, separate identity. This decision now allows us to set our own course and assert our independence as we continue to build our own modern newsgathering operation. The future of our success is not tied to remaining within the NBC family and using the peacock as part of our identity.” (via Variety)
This decision was also supported by MSNBC news anchor Rachel Maddow. She explained that the name change isn’t just on a corporate level, but also a move to position the company as a competitor to NBC. She further added, “So I think the distinction is going to be good for us.”
Does MSNBC have a new logo after rebranding?
Yes, MSNBC does have a new logo after rebranding.
After dropping its iconic peacock design, MSNBC recently revealed its new logo. Along with the new name, MS NOW, the logo will feature a red and white flag set against a blue background.
Explaining the reasons for the logo and name change, Versant CEO Mark Lazarus said in the memo, “As we all know, 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.”
