“Change is here, and it’s BOLD!” – Greg Gutfeld

🚨 FOX NEWS STUNNER: Sandra Smith is IN, Jessica Tarlov is OUT on The Five! Greg Gutfeld’s game-changing move to pair with Smith has fans buzzing and the network reeling. Is this the shake-up The Five needed?

Jump into the drama and tell us what you think!

In a stunning development that has sent ripples through Fox News, Sandra Smith has replaced Jessica Tarlov as a co-host on The Five, the network’s flagship roundtable show. The decision, reportedly spearheaded by Greg Gutfeld, one of the show’s most influential voices, marks a significant shift in the program’s dynamic and has sparked intense reactions from fans and industry insiders alike. As Smith steps into the high-profile role, questions swirl about the motivations behind the change, its impact on The Five’s viewership, and what it means for the future of both Tarlov and the network. This bold move underscores the ever-evolving landscape of cable news, where personalities and politics collide to shape public discourse.

The Context of The Five

The Five, launched in 2011, is one of Fox News’s most successful programs, consistently ranking among the top cable news shows in viewership. Featuring a rotating panel of five hosts who discuss current events, politics, and culture, the show thrives on its mix of lively debate, humor, and ideological diversity. Greg Gutfeld, a longtime co-host and the driving force behind Gutfeld!, has become a central figure on the program, known for his sharp wit and unapologetic conservatism. Other regular hosts, including Dana Perino, Jesse Watters, and Jeanine Pirro, contribute to the show’s dynamic, with each bringing a distinct perspective.

Jessica Tarlov, a liberal commentator and senior political analyst, has been a key part of The Five since joining as a regular co-host in 2021. Her role as the panel’s primary progressive voice often placed her at odds with her conservative colleagues, leading to spirited exchanges that became a hallmark of the show. Tarlov’s ability to hold her own in debates, combined with her analytical approach, earned her both fans and critics, making her a polarizing yet integral part of the program.

Sandra Smith, a veteran Fox News anchor, is best known for co-hosting America’s Newsroom and America Reports. A Wheaton, Illinois, native, Smith has built a reputation for her polished delivery and ability to navigate complex news stories. Her conservative leanings align closely with the network’s core audience, but her journalistic background and measured tone have also earned her respect across ideological lines. Her appointment to The Five represents a significant career milestone, positioning her as a central player in Fox News’s primetime lineup.

The Shake-Up

The announcement that Smith would replace Tarlov on The Five came as a shock to fans, who had grown accustomed to Tarlov’s presence on the panel. While Fox News has not publicly detailed the reasons for the change, sources suggest that Gutfeld played a pivotal role in advocating for Smith’s inclusion. His influence within the network, bolstered by the success of Gutfeld! and his recent contract extension, likely gave him significant sway in shaping the show’s direction. The move has been described as a strategic effort to refresh The Five’s dynamic, though it has raised questions about internal dynamics and viewer reception.

Tarlov’s departure from The Five does not appear to be a complete exit from Fox News, as she remains a contributor and analyst for the network. However, her removal from the show’s regular lineup marks a significant shift, given her prominence as the liberal counterpoint to the panel’s conservative majority. Speculation about the decision centers on several factors: creative differences, audience feedback, or a desire to recalibrate the show’s ideological balance. Some insiders suggest that Gutfeld sought a co-host whose style would complement his own, with Smith’s measured approach seen as a better fit for the show’s evolving tone.

Smith’s arrival on The Five introduces a new dynamic to the panel. Unlike Tarlov, whose debates often leaned into ideological sparring, Smith is expected to bring a more journalistic perspective, potentially softening the show’s confrontational edge. Her experience covering business and politics equips her to handle the show’s wide-ranging topics, while her conservative alignment may resonate with viewers who felt Tarlov’s liberal perspective was too prominent. However, her transition from anchor to roundtable co-host will test her ability to adapt to the show’s fast-paced, opinion-driven format.

Fan and Industry Reactions

The news has elicited a polarized response from The Five’s audience. On platforms like X, conservative viewers have largely welcomed Smith’s appointment, praising her professionalism and alignment with Fox News’s core values. Many see her as a stabilizing force who can maintain the show’s energy without the ideological clashes that defined Tarlov’s tenure. Some fans have even hailed Gutfeld’s decision as a masterstroke, arguing that Smith’s inclusion will broaden the show’s appeal and attract new viewers.

Conversely, Tarlov’s supporters have expressed disappointment and frustration, viewing her replacement as a loss for ideological diversity on The Five. Fans who appreciated her ability to challenge conservative narratives argue that Smith’s more restrained style may dilute the show’s debate-driven format. Some have speculated that the move reflects pressure from conservative audiences to minimize liberal voices, though no evidence supports this claim. Tarlov’s defenders are also vocal about her contributions, noting that her analytical rigor and willingness to engage in tough debates added depth to the program.

Industry observers are equally divided. Some see the shake-up as a savvy move by Gutfeld and Fox News to keep The Five fresh in a competitive market, where rivals like CNN and MSNBC are vying for viewers. Others question whether Smith’s anchoring background will translate to the show’s opinion-heavy format, which demands quick wit and strong personality. The decision also raises broader questions about the role of ideological diversity in cable news, particularly as networks navigate polarized audiences.

The Broader Context

The replacement of Tarlov with Smith comes at a time of significant change in the media landscape. Cable news networks are grappling with declining viewership as audiences turn to streaming platforms and social media for information. Fox News, while still a ratings leader, faces pressure to innovate and retain its core audience, particularly in the wake of the 2024 presidential election. The Five’s success—driven by its blend of entertainment and political commentary—has made it a cornerstone of the network’s strategy, but maintaining that momentum requires constant adaptation.

Gutfeld’s role in the decision reflects his growing influence at Fox News. As the host of Gutfeld!, which has outperformed traditional late-night shows, and a key figure on The Five, he has become a linchpin of the network’s brand. His push to bring Smith onto the panel aligns with his track record of taking bold risks, from launching a late-night comedy show to reshaping The Five’s dynamic. The move also underscores the network’s reliance on trusted personalities like Smith, whose long tenure and viewer familiarity make her a safe yet impactful choice.

Tarlov’s exit from The Five also highlights the challenges faced by liberal commentators on conservative-leaning networks. While her presence added balance to the show, it often placed her in the difficult position of defending progressive views against a majority-conservative panel. Her ability to navigate these dynamics earned her respect, but it may have also contributed to tensions behind the scenes. Her continued role at Fox News suggests she will remain a visible figure, potentially appearing on other programs or contributing to election coverage.

Implications for The Five and Fox News

The introduction of Smith to The Five could reshape the show’s identity. Her journalistic approach may shift the tone toward more policy-focused discussions, potentially appealing to viewers who prefer substance over spectacle. However, it risks alienating fans who thrived on the show’s combative energy, particularly the clashes between Tarlov and her co-hosts. Smith’s success will depend on her ability to carve out a distinct role alongside Gutfeld, Watters, Perino, and Pirro, each of whom brings a strong personality to the table.

For Fox News, the move is a calculated gamble. The Five’s strong ratings—often surpassing 3 million viewers nightly—provide a buffer, but any change to a successful formula carries risks. If Smith’s inclusion boosts viewership or attracts a broader audience, it could solidify the show’s dominance. Conversely, if fans reject the new dynamic, the network may face pressure to revisit the decision. The timing, post-2024 election, suggests a strategic effort to refresh the show for a new political cycle.

Tarlov’s future at Fox News remains a point of intrigue. As a skilled communicator with a loyal following, she is likely to remain a valuable asset, whether through guest appearances, election analysis, or a new role. Her departure from The Five may also open opportunities for her to explore other platforms, where her liberal perspective could resonate with different audiences.

Looking Ahead

As of June 2025, the transition is still fresh, with Smith settling into her role and Tarlov’s next steps unclear. Gutfeld’s influence will be closely watched, as his ability to steer The Five through this change will test his vision for the show. Early episodes featuring Smith will be critical in gauging viewer reactions, with ratings and social media buzz serving as key indicators. The network may also lean on promotional efforts to highlight Smith’s arrival, emphasizing her credentials and chemistry with the panel.

Fan engagement on X and other platforms will shape the narrative. If Smith wins over skeptics, the shake-up could be hailed as a triumph for Gutfeld and Fox News. If backlash persists, the network may need to adjust its strategy, potentially bringing Tarlov back in a guest capacity or introducing other changes to The Five. The coming months will reveal whether this bold move strengthens the show or exposes its vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

The replacement of Jessica Tarlov with Sandra Smith on The Five is a pivotal moment for Fox News, driven by Greg Gutfeld’s vision and reflective of the network’s efforts to evolve in a competitive media landscape. Smith’s arrival promises a new dynamic, while Tarlov’s exit raises questions about ideological balance and the show’s future. As fans and critics debate the change, the shake-up underscores the high stakes of cable news, where personalities can make or break a program.

For those following this drama, the story is just beginning. Smith’s performance, Gutfeld’s leadership, and Tarlov’s next move will shape The Five’s trajectory and Fox News’s broader strategy. To understand the full impact, keep an eye on the show and join the conversation about this game-changing moment.