Is Lawrence O’Donnell Leaving MSNBC?

Fans of The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell have been asking one big question lately: Is Lawrence O’Donnell leaving MSNBC? The rumors started earlier this year when the longtime host disappeared from his usual spot at 10 p.m. for a while, and people online quickly began to speculate. Some thought he was retiring, while others believed he was moving to another network. But the truth is much simpler.

Why People Think He’s Leaving?

In March 2025, a report suggested that O’Donnell was in tough contract talks with MSNBC. At 73, he was said to be looking for a deal similar to Rachel Maddow’s, which lets her appear only once a week while focusing on other projects like her podcast. Because of this, some assumed he was preparing to step back from nightly television or even leave altogether.

Adding to the speculation, O’Donnell took a break from his show in mid-March. He wasn’t seen on-air for several weeks, and when a familiar face suddenly disappears, viewers naturally start to wonder. Social media posts quickly spread the idea that his time at MSNBC might be over.

The Reality Behind the Rumors

Despite all the noise, O’Donnell is not leaving MSNBC. Reports from outlets like Yahoo News have made it clear that his absence was only temporary. It was a short break, not a farewell. MSNBC hasn’t made any announcement about him stepping down, and his show continues to air in its regular slot.

The Last Word is still one of MSNBC’s strongest programs. Even with heavy competition from Fox News and CNN at the same hour, O’Donnell’s show pulls in strong ratings and remains a big part of the network’s primetime lineup. For MSNBC, it wouldn’t make sense to let go of such an important voice.

Why the Stories Keep Coming Back?

This isn’t the first time O’Donnell has faced rumors about leaving. Back in 2017, there was a lot of talk that his contract wouldn’t be renewed, but he stayed. Part of the reason these rumors keep returning is because he’s been on television for so long. At his age, any break or pause from the spotlight quickly sparks retirement chatter.

Another reason is the way cable news contracts work. High-profile hosts often keep negotiations private, which leaves room for speculation. Until the network or the host speaks directly, fans are left guessing.

Final Answer

So, is Lawrence O’Donnell leaving MSNBC? No, he isn’t. He took some time off earlier this year and is in the middle of contract talks, but there has been no official word of him stepping down. Viewers can still expect to see him hosting The Last Word and delivering his sharp takes on the day’s biggest stories.

For now, O’Donnell remains exactly where he’s been for years—on MSNBC at 10 p.m., guiding his audience through the end of each news cycle.