Fox News Unveils New Lineup in Aftermath of Tucker Carlson Sacking
Jesse Watters, the conservative firebrand known for his quick wit, takes over the coveted 8 p.m. hour once lorded by Bill O'Reilly. Sean Hannity, Laura Ingraham, Greg Gutfeld remain in the mix.
Fox News chief Suzanne Scott, under pressure to keep the conservative-leaning channel’s primetime shows as a ratings winner after the firing of Tucker Carlson, unveiled a new lineup that positions Jesse Watters in the pole position.
Watters inherits the 8 p.m. slot once lorded.by Carlson and Bill O’Reilly. Laura Ingraham shifts to 7 p.m, and Greg Gutfeld slides to 10 p.m. Sean Hannity, currently the network’s biggest star, remains will at 9 p.m.
The revamped primetime schedule brings about a complete overhaul of nearly every hour, yet it also relies on familiar personalities, a strategic decision aimed at addressing recent ratings concerns, particularly in Carlson’s old slot. By featuring well-known figures, the network aims to alleviate any apprehensions surrounding viewership.
“FOX News Channel has been America’s destination for news and analysis for more than 21 years and we are thrilled to debut a new lineup,” Scott said in a statement. “The unique perspectives of Laura Ingraham, Jesse Watters, Sean Hannity, and Greg Gutfeld will ensure our viewers have access to unrivaled coverage from our best-in-class team for years to come.”
The top-rated cable news channel seldom rearranges its schedule, but the recent removal of Carlson led to such changes. This decision followed shortly after Fox News agreed to a substantial $787.5-million settlement with Dominion Voting Systems for spreading false information about voter fraud in the 2020 election.