5. Special Report with Bret Baier
Starting our list, we have Special Report with Bret Baier, a show that dives into the nitty-gritty of political reporting and analysis. While it’s not the most-watched on this list, its contribution to Fox News’s overall viewership is significant. The program offers a platform for in-depth discussion on current events, which resonates with an audience that craves substance over sensationalism. Although specific viewership statistics for Special Report with Bret Baier are not provided in our research material, its place on this list suggests a loyal and substantial audience.
4. Hannity
Moving up the ranks, Hannity, airing weekdays at 9 p.m. ET, has firmly held its ground as a staple of Fox News. Sean Hannity’s unique interviewing style and unabashed political commentary have kept the show’s viewership numbers robust. Still, Hannity’s numbers didn’t suffer much even without Carlson as a lead-in, reflecting a figure close to its recent average of 2.59 million,
showing the show’s independent strength in attracting viewers. This prime-time position, coupled with Hannity’s distinct voice in political discourse, ensures its place as one of Fox News’s most dependable draws.
3. Tucker Carlson Tonight
Tucker Carlson Tonight has carved out a significant place in cable news with its confrontational and unapologetic style. The show’s ability to draw an audience is evident; Fox News Tonight pulled in just under 2.6 million viewers, according to The Hollywood Reporter, a 21 percent dip from Tucker Carlson Tonight’s recent average viewership of 3.3 million,
underscoring the show’s massive appeal. Despite facing challenges such as Carlson’s departure and legal disputes faced by the network, the program continues to be a flagship offering of Fox News.
2. The Five
In second place is The Five, renowned for its roundtable discussion format that has captivated viewers consistently over time. It boasts an impressive track record; The Five averaged 2.6 million viewers to finish as the most-watched show in cable news,
demonstrating its enduring appeal and relevance in today’s media landscape. The co-hosts’ dynamic interactions and diverse perspectives provide a fresh take on daily news items, contributing to its success and high viewership.
1. The O’Reilly Factor
Topping our list is none other than The O’Reilly Factor, which once stood as the titan of cable news programs. Bill O’Reilly’s tenure as host played a pivotal role in Fox News’s rise to prominence. With captivating commentary and an engaging format, it consistently drew large audiences, outperforming all other shows in its prime-time slot. The network was built on Bill O’Reilly’s ability to draw a crowd,
illustrating the significant impact this show had not just on Fox News but on the broader landscape of cable news.
