Recent social media posts have falsely claimed that MSNBC host Rachel Maddow broke down in tears on air over a meme shared by Elon Musk about purchasing MSNBC. These claims are based on a manipulated video that combines footage from a 2018 broadcast with fabricated graphics.
The original 2018 clip shows Maddow becoming emotional while reporting on the separation of migrant children from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border. In contrast, the altered video includes a fake news banner stating, “Elon Musk Posts Dangerous Meme,” and inserts an explicit meme suggesting Musk’s interest in buying MSNBC. This doctored video has been widely shared, leading to misinformation about Maddow’s reaction.
Elon Musk has made lighthearted remarks on social media about acquiring MSNBC, especially following reports that Comcast, the network’s parent company, plans to spin off its cable channels into a new entity. However, there is no official confirmation of such a sale, and the rumors remain speculative.
It’s essential to verify the authenticity of online content, as manipulated media can easily spread misinformation. In this case, the video in question is a deceptive edit, and Rachel Maddow did not have an on-air breakdown related to Elon Musk’s meme.