Former MSNBC host Mehdi Hasan launches Zeteo, a new digital media venture

British Indian American liberal commentator says Zeteo will be a platform for truth-seeking journalism, promoting diverse perspectives

British Indian American liberal commentator Mehdi Hasan, who departed from MSNBC last month following the controversial cancellation of his weekly show in November, is preparing to launch his own digital media company, Zeteo.

Named after the Greek word meaning “to seek,” Zeteo is scheduled to make its debut in April on the Substack platform. The company’s flagship offerings will include a weekly streaming show titled “Mehdi Unfiltered,” hosted by Hasan himself, alongside a weekly podcast and a range of written contributions from prominent figures. Subscribers can access the platform for $6 per month, with an annual subscription option available.

Announcing the launch of the platform, Hasan told his 1.5 million followers on X, formerly known as Twitter:

“Some personal & professional news: I’m launching a new media company! It’s called Zeteo.

“And, in this era of war abroad, fascism at home, and propaganda everywhere, I hope I can count on your support.”

🚨Some personal & professional news: I'm launching a new media company! It's called Zeteo.

And, in this era of war abroad, fascism at home, and propaganda everywhere, I hope I can count on your support.

Please do sign up today and subscribe here:https://t.co/je2PVGmCWH pic.twitter.com/wKKOvLQdDA

— Mehdi Hasan (@mehdirhasan) February 28, 2024

READ: MSNBC and Peakcock cancel Mehdi Hasan Show (November 30, 2023)

To kickstart Zeteo, Hasan told the Washington Post that he secured $4 million in funding, with support from friends, family, and concerned viewers following his departure from MSNBC. The network faced significant backlash after axing Hasan’s television and streaming shows on November 30, which many of his supporters believed was due to the sidelining of critical voices on the US position regarding the Israeli-Hamas war.

“I’ve decided that it’s time for me to look for a new challenge,” Hasan announced during his final episode on January 7. “Tonight is not just my final episode of ‘The Mehdi Hasan Show.’ It’s my last day with MSNBC. Yes, I’ve decided to leave.”

In a message circulated on social media to his followers on Wednesday, Hasan expressed, “I have asked you all to share and repost a lot of things over the years. You’ve always supported me. I am now making my biggest ask of all: I’ve launched my own media company. We need an alternative to the mainstream folks. This is it.”

While Hasan will serve as the face of Zeteo, he emphasizes the platform’s dedication to amplifying diverse voices and perspectives often sidelined by mainstream media.

READ: Mehdi Hasan announces departure from MSNBC (January 8, 2024)

The launch of Zeteo signifies a bold move for Hasan, who acknowledges the risks involved but remains optimistic about the venture’s potential.

Hasan’s foray into the digital realm reflects a broader trend among media personalities seeking greater independence and autonomy in their expression.

Recently, Hasan joined The Guardian as a regular columnist. His first column, published on February 21, called on President Joe Biden to pressure the Israeli government to end the “genocide” of Palestinians in Gaza. Hasan told Semafor that he was grateful for the opportunity to contribute to The Guardian, stating that he has been an avid reader of the publication since his teenage years.

Hasan previously worked for Al Jazeera English and the Intercept.

His new venture mirrors a broader shift in media consumption, with digital platforms playing an increasingly influential role in shaping public opinion. The success of Zeteo will be closely monitored as Hasan aims to carve out a space for independent voices.