Staff Reports
Elon Musk recently poked fun at the possibility of purchasing MSNBC from Comcast, and the implications of such a move could send shockwaves through the increasingly fragmented world of cable news. The rumors kicked off when Donald Trump Jr., known for his knack for stirring the pot on social media, jokingly suggested to Musk that buying the struggling network could be a great idea. Given that MSNBC has seen its ratings plunge faster than a rock in a lake, one might wonder just how much Comcast would even ask for it.
The momentum only escalated from there as Musk engaged with the Twitter banter. According to sources close to the saga, Musk asked how much the network could possibly cost. Trump Jr. cleverly pointed out that with the dismal viewership figures, it probably wouldn’t break the bank. Throw in a bit of irony, and Musk hinted that an entertaining outcome could involve comedic turns that would leave viewers clutching their sides instead of their remotes.
Hey @elonmusk I have the funniest idea ever!!! https://t.co/OEwz6S5ncs
— Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) November 22, 2024
Comedian Joe Rogan couldn’t resist tossing his hat into the ring, jokingly offering to take over Rachel Maddow’s coveted spot if Musk did buy MSNBC. The visual of Rogan donning the same outfit and glasses as Maddow while delivering the same questionable narratives is just the sort of scenario that would elevate ratings—albeit for a completely different reason. If the masses are looking for humor, who wouldn’t tune in to see Rogan’s over-the-top mimicry?
The most entertaining outcome, especially if ironic, is most likely 😂 https://t.co/YX2EznXfoF
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 22, 2024
The Twitter exchanges didn’t stop there. Trump added his own twist by suggesting he could portray Lawrence O’Donnell, but important limitations were mentioned. One must draw the line at controversial stances, especially when it comes to satirical castration. His comment brought a chuckle, showcasing the absurd lengths to which some might go for a laugh in politics.
On a more sobering note, Comcast’s considerations around spinning off MSNBC reflect a larger trend—cable subscriptions are plummeting. Predictions tally just 70 million households maintaining cable by the end of this year, a stark decline from 105 million in 2010 when Comcast acquired NBCUniversal. Meanwhile, rival network Fox News is dominating the ratings, amassing a hefty 75% of prime-time viewership, leaving MSNBC gasping for breath in its wake. Perhaps the only thing funnier than Rogan’s dressed-up antics is the idea of MSNBC existing without the current cable giant’s safety net.
