As Chris Matthews announced his immediate retirement from MSNBC's "Hardball" Monday over accusations that he made inappropriate comments to women, an emotional scene took place behind the cameras, where Matthews' family and crew watched him say his goodbyes.
"I’m retiring," the veteran host told viewers at the top of his show. "This is the last ‘Hardball’ at MSNBC, and obviously this isn’t for lack of interest in politics. As you can tell, I’ve loved every minute of my 20 years as host of ‘Hardball.’"
Before the taping began, Matthews ducked into the studio without talking to any of the people waiting to appear on his show. As upcoming guests, including Democratic strategist Joe Trippi, gathered with makeup artist Roxanne Williams, Associated Press White House reporter Jonathan Lemire urged everyone assembled to watch Matthews’ opening.