NBC gives Joshua Johnson prime-time streaming show

Joshua Johnson is getting his own show in prime time on NBC’s streaming service. 

The hourlong program, dubbed “NOW Tonight with Joshua Johnson,” will air at 8 p.m. beginning on Monday, Dec. 6, and be available daily on The Roku Channel, YouTube TV, YouTube, Fubo, Xumo, Pluto, Tubi and the NBC News app.

The network said the show will “take a step back” to offer viewers context “into the why and the how behind the biggest stories of the day.” 

“I’ve always been encouraged to speak freely, connecting with people from many backgrounds,” Johnson said in a statement. “This program is built on that foundation. It’s the perfect outlet for viewers in these divisive times, curating their insights and feedback.”

Johnson added that he is committed to making his show “a welcoming space, grounded in the universal values of curiosity and empathy.”

Lisa Crivelli will serve as the show’s executive producer, the network said, and report to Janelle Rodriguez, senior vice president of editorial for NBC News and executive-in-charge of NBC News NOW.

The announcement of Johnson’s new gig comes just weeks after the network said it would give Hallie Jackson, a leading political corespondent and anchor on MSNBC, a show of her own on its streaming platform. 

Over the summer, the network said it would add hundreds of jobs to its editorial departments as it looks to bolster its streaming services and compete with CNN+, which is expected to launch next year, and the already off the ground Fox Nation streaming service. 

Johnson joined MSNBC as an anchor in 2019 and hosts a weekend show on the network. He was previously most well known for hosting NPR’s premier daily news program “1A.”