NBC is experiencing a mass exodus that would make even the most seasoned ship captain raise an eyebrow. Chuck Todd, the network’s well-known news anchor, is set to depart by the end of 2025, joining the ranks of others who have chosen to jump ship for greener pastures—both literally and metaphorically. This trend underlines what many have already suspected: mainstream media is fading faster than ice cream on a hot summer day.
The 2024 presidential campaign has made it abundantly clear that traditional news outlets are struggling to keep up with the times—especially when social media and alternative content creators are dominating the conversation. Donald Trump, ever the media maestro, has redirected attention from the conventional news giants to podcasters and social media influencers who seem to hold more sway over the public’s opinions than any of the suits in corporate newsrooms. As figures such as Theo Von and Joe Rogan gain traction, some long-time news anchors, including Todd, are likely wondering if they’ve invested in a sinking ship.
Chuck Todd plans to leave NBC when his contract is up later this year: report https://t.co/CcNP2MI20t pic.twitter.com/iaj4o15U9v
— New York Post (@nypost) January 13, 2025
Todd’s tenure at NBC, which began in 2007, saw him become the face of the network’s news division. However, as ratings for NBC News and its liberal affiliate MSNBC have plummeted—losing more than half their primetime audience since Trump’s second victory—growing discontent within the ranks has turned into an exodus. Word on the street is that Todd has been meeting with various media outlets in hopes of redefining his career before his contract expires. His history at NBC, particularly his vocal criticisms of the network’s decisions, has left coworkers speculating whether he is strategically angling for his escape.
In a landscape where veteran journalists are increasingly seeking out opportunities in new media, Todd is part of a broader trend. Recently, big names from CNN and Fox News have also decided they’d rather venture out on their own than deal with the dying behemoths that once ruled the airwaves. Alisyn Camerota has bided farewell to CNN, Neil Cavuto has walked away from Fox after nearly three decades, and Chris Wallace has moved on, too—ready to create his podcast empire. One can almost hear the collective sigh of relief from these anchors, who have finally decided to escape the shackles of corporate media.
As traditional outlets struggle and heavy hitters like Todd chart new paths, it’s clear that the media landscape is undergoing a seismic shift. The high salary packages promised to big names are becoming less meaningful as being a “face” of liberal network news becomes a less appealing proposition. Todd’s pivot could signify not just a personal change, but an industry-wide evolution where the voices of independent content creators become increasingly significant. Let the mainstream media know it’s time to step aside—the future belongs to those who are willing to adapt.