Fox News’ Show ‘The Five’ Sets Unbelievable Records, Becoming the Most-Watched Cable Program of 2022

Sometimes success is not just earned, it is shattered into records that leave everyone amazed. Fox News’ ‘The Five’ has just done that, blazing through ratings and reaching unprecedented heights. In a year of challenges and competition, 'The Five' managed to claim victory over all, becoming the most-watched cable program of 2022. What made this show stand out, and why couldn’t MSNBC or CNN keep up?

‘The Five’ has emerged as a true titan in cable news programming. This year, it led all other cable shows, setting itself apart with incredible viewership numbers. Fox News Channel, already known for dominating ratings, reached a new pinnacle in 2022. ‘The Five’ drew in an average of 3.5 million viewers, making it the most-watched program not just on Fox but across all cable TV. This is a major achievement, especially in a time when people have so many options for getting their news.

A significant part of the show's success is its unique format and the chemistry among its hosts. ‘The Five’ features a panel of five personalities who engage in dynamic, often spirited discussions about the day’s most pressing stories. The panel, which includes familiar faces like Greg Gutfeld, Dana Perino, and Jesse Watters, has managed to build a loyal fanbase by providing a mix of humor, strong opinions, and insightful analysis. Their conversations are lively and unpredictable, which is part of the reason people tune in daily.

"Viewers are not just watching—they are engaging," said one of the Fox News representatives. This kind of audience interaction has contributed to 'The Five' growing into something more than just another news program. People feel like they are part of the conversation, and the hosts’ personalities create a bond that extends beyond the screen.

2022 marked the third-highest-rated year in cable news history in terms of total-day viewers, and ‘The Five’ played a significant role in this milestone. Its success has helped Fox News remain the top cable network, both during prime time and throughout the entire day, for the past seven years. This consistent dominance shows that the formula Fox News has developed—news with a twist of personality and debate—is exactly what viewers want. They are drawn to the panel format, where hosts argue but also joke with each other, giving a sense of entertainment alongside information.

Fox News' triumph is not just limited to 'The Five'. The network itself has left other competitors like MSNBC and CNN far behind. In 2022, Fox News had an average of 1.5 million total-day viewers, while MSNBC trailed at around 800,000 and CNN even lower, at about 600,000. The numbers show a clear winner, as Fox continues to dominate the space with programs that engage the audience on multiple levels. Shows like ‘The Five’ are not just about giving the news—they provide commentary, add personal touch, and encourage debate.

Another element contributing to the success of ‘The Five’ is its prime airing time at 5 PM ET. By airing at a time when most Americans are winding down from their workday but are not quite ready for the more formal prime-time news, the show has managed to capture viewers looking for a balance between news and entertainment. This scheduling choice has turned out to be a gold mine for Fox, ensuring they reach an audience that is relaxed and ready to absorb the day's most critical events.

Viewers have also expressed that they appreciate the honesty and straightforward nature of the hosts. They do not hold back their opinions, whether they agree with each other or not, and this openness resonates with many Americans. For many, ‘The Five’ provides a platform where opinions they share or oppose are voiced out loud, offering a representation that is often missing in mainstream media.

As Fox continues to shine, the success of ‘The Five’ stands as a testament to what viewers want—engagement, straightforward commentary, and a sense of involvement in discussions that shape the world. It’s not just about watching the news; it's about feeling part of a broader conversation. Greg Gutfeld and Dana Perino’s on-screen chemistry, Jesse Watters’ bold takes, and the lively debates are why people keep returning for more. It's a winning combination that draws both loyal viewers and new ones.

The year 2022 was not without its controversies for cable news. Both MSNBC and CNN faced challenges in their programming line-ups, viewership ratings, and even changes in key personnel. In contrast, Fox News held steady, thanks to shows like ‘The Five’. With its mix of humor, spirited debate, and perspectives that many Americans relate to, it filled a gap in the market—a gap that others failed to capitalize on.

Going forward, Fox News will aim to continue this upward trajectory. With ‘The Five’ at the forefront, they have shown they know how to adapt to what the audience is looking for. The show's dominance in 2022 is a clear indication that people want their news to be informative, engaging, and—most importantly—authentic.