Longtime MSNBC “Hardball” host Chris Matthews announced on-air that he will be departing from the primetime show.
On Monday night, Matthews opened the show with the announcement of his resignation. He declared that it would be his last episode of “Hardball” but “not for lack of interest in politics.”
“Let me start with my headline tonight: I’m retiring. This is the last ‘Hardball’ on MSNBC,” Matthews said adding, “And obviously, this isn’t for the lack of interest in politics.”
He continued, “As you can tell, I loved every minute of my 20 years as host of ‘Hardball.'”
“Every morning I read the papers and I’m gung-ho to get to work. Not many people have had this privilege. I love working with my producers and our discussions we’d have on how we report the news. And I love having this connection with you, the good people who watch.”
Matthews went on to shed light on the reason for his departure. He admitted that the decision to resign came after a discussion with the network. Matthews mentioned the “younger generation” and the progressive changes in the way people are fighting for causes.
He also touched on the sexual harassment claims that were previously made against him. Matthews offered an apology.
“Compliments on a woman’s appearance that some men, including me, might have once incorrectly thought were okay were not okay, not then and certainly not today. And for making such comments in the past, I’m sorry,” Matthews said.
Check out Matthews’ statement below:
— Chris Matthews (@HardballChris) March 3, 2020
The latest news about Matthews’ resignation follows his recent remarks about Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).
As previously reported on IJR, Matthews came under fire after he compared Sen. Bernie Sanders’ (I-Vt) Nevada caucuses win to France falling to Nazi Germany. The analogy quickly led to backlash and Matthews ultimately offered an apology on-air.
My friend and colleague @HardballChris with a heart felt sign off and nod to his viewers who are many. His love of politics and politicians and enthusiasm for every story he covers is in a league of its own. https://t.co/W76gZGJfo3
— Nicolle Wallace (@NicolleDWallace) March 3, 2020
Mika and I were deeply moved by @SteveKornacki’s tribute to Chris Matthews. Actually, we are wiping tears from our eyes. We love Chris and will miss him every night in our home at 7pm. As Steve said, Chris was the most human TV guy and “I say that as the highest compliment.” pic.twitter.com/M7uGj61kAB
— Joe Scarborough (@JoeNBC) March 3, 2020
Despite his departure from “Hardball,” Matthews assured his fans that this would not be the end of his career. He is currently writing another book and will continue to discuss politics.
“So let’s not say, ‘Goodbye’ but, ‘Til we meet again,'” Matthews said.
