Media

Bashir quits MSNBC after Palin remark

Troubled news network MSNBC just lost a second host with the resignation of Martin Bashir.

The British reporter, famous for his bombshell interviews with Princess Diana and Michael Jackson, issued a statement Wednesday afternoon saying he regretted comments made about former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin and confirmed his exit from the network.

His departure comes just weeks after the exit of another MSNBC host Alec Baldwin following a gay slur he made about a photographer in a scuffle outside his home.

Bashir took offense when Palin described how the national debt would become something akin to slavery.

He followed up on his broadcast with a historical allusion that suggested she would be a good candidate for the same abuse slaves received.

Bashir took a vacation around Thanksgiving and was temporarily replaced by Joy-Ann Reid in the 4 p.m. slot. MSNBC said it would announce a permanent host in the coming weeks.

Bashir’s statement read: “After meeting with the President of MSNBC, I have tendered my resignation. It is my sincere hope that all of my colleagues, at this special network, will be allowed to focus on the issues that matter without the distraction of myself or my ill-judged comments.”

“I deeply regret what was said, will endeavor to work hard at making constructive contributions in the future and will always have a deep appreciation for our viewers — who are the smartest, most compassionate and discerning of all television audiences. I would also wish to express deepest gratitude to my immediate colleagues, and our contributors, all of whom have given so much of themselves to our broadcast.”

Phil Griffin, president of MSNBC, added: “Martin Bashir resigned today, effective immediately. I understand his decision and I thank him for three great years with MSNBC. Martin is a good man and respected colleague — we wish him only the best.”