On June 18, 2026, during the opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, actor Tom Hanks made a joke about MS NOW’s viewer numbers while on a live interview with the network. The event, which included former presidents, celebrities, and public figures celebrating the Obama administration’s legacy, brought together pop culture and media audience discussions.
During the live MS NOW broadcast, Hanks joked that the channel’s current viewer count was so low it needed an extra zero. The comment gained attention on social media and showed ongoing public interest in TV ratings and the success of newer news networks. Yahoo! News confirmed the joke took place during the live interview, while the New York Post reported Hanks’ specific remark about adding a zero to MS NOW’s ratings.
Hanks has a long history of supporting the press and interacting with media. His joke was light and not a harsh criticism, made during an otherwise festive event. It pointed out the difficulties MS NOW faces in building its audience.
The Obama Presidential Center, which cost $850 million, aims to honor the former president’s legacy and drew a crowd of dignitaries and public figures. Former presidents attended, showing the event’s importance. The opening featured speeches, performances, and live media coverage, including MS NOW’s broadcast from Chicago.
MS NOW is a new cable news channel competing in a crowded market. Data from early 2026 shows MS NOW had about 691,000 viewers during the whole day and 1.1 million during primetime. These figures are modest for cable news but reflect the network’s efforts to grow. The channel airs live shows regularly, with anchors like Jacob Soboroff, who covered the opening.
Hanks’ joke drew public interest in MS NOW’s viewers, leading to questions about the channel’s anchors, live show times, and how to watch it on YouTube and its app. People want to know how MS NOW fits into the wider news media scene.
Hanks’ remarks sparked discussions about ratings and how audiences value them. His humor brought some lightness but also showed the ongoing challenge media outlets have in attracting viewers in a divided market. This incident shows how celebrity comments can affect how news organizations are seen.
MS NOW has not responded to Hanks’ comments. The event is an example of how big public occasions can create unexpected media moments that last beyond the day.
The incident also shows how channels like MS NOW face challenges in gaining visibility in today’s changing media world. As audiences spread out across many platforms, viewership numbers can change, affecting network plans and public interest. Anchors and hosts help shape the channel’s image, and being available on digital platforms is important.
During the June 18 opening of the Obama Presidential Center, Tom Hanks’ joke about MS NOW’s low ratings combined entertainment and media critique. It highlighted the connection between celebrity influence, media performance, and audience interest, capturing a moment in the story of American news media.
