Ari Melber, the host of one of MSNBC’s highest-rated programs, has met with rival networks and is “in discussions” to leave, Breaker reported Tuesday.
The outlet cited two people familiar with the matter, noting that Melber is also deciding whether to launch his own startup.
Melber has hosted “The Beat” since 2017. It ranked fourth in the ratings among the news channel’s shows as of Friday.
His possible departure comes at time of flux for the station. It’s preparing to separate from NBC to join a distinct corporate group under parent company Comcast.
Last month, a network rep confirmed that MSNBC’s popular poll wonk Steve Kornacki signed with NBC. That essentially severed his connection to the cable news outlet.
Melber’s loss would also prove costly on YouTube, where clips from his show draw hefty views, Breaker noted. In addition, top-rated host Rachel Maddow’s return to a once-a-week schedule is likely to diminish MSNBC viewership, so the loss of a proven personality like Melber could be costly.
Melber, an attorney, also serves as MSNBC’s chief legal correspondent.
He and an MSNBC rep declined comment to Breaker.
Neither MSNBC nor an Instagram account for Melber’s show immediately returned HuffPost requests for comment.