Fox News Shakes Up ‘The Five’: Johnny Joey Jones Takes Liberal Seat Amid Rumors of Jessica Tarlov Replacement

Byline: Media & Entertainment Desk New York, December 30, 2025 – Fox News has ignited intense speculation across media circles with a high-profile substitution on its flagship panel show The Five, as retired Marine and contributor Johnny “Joey” Jones has repeatedly occupied the seat traditionally held by liberal co-host Jessica Tarlov. The move, described in viral social media posts and entertainment blogs as a “permanent replacement” backed by Greg Gutfeld, has sparked debates about the network’s direction, with supporters praising it as a bold refresh and critics viewing it as a shift away from ideological balance.

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The Five, airing weekdays at 5 p.m. ET and consistently the top-rated cable news program, features co-hosts Greg Gutfeld, Dana Perino, Jesse Watters, and rotating voices including Tarlov and Harold Ford Jr. Known for its lively roundtable debates, the show has thrived on contrasting viewpoints, with Tarlov often serving as the primary liberal counterpoint. Recent episodes, however, have seen Jones—a combat-wounded veteran and frequent guest—filling in extensively, leading to widespread rumors of a lasting change.

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Jones, who lost both legs in an IED explosion during his 2010 deployment to Afghanistan, joined Fox News as a contributor in 2019. He hosts The Big Weekend Show, appears regularly on Gutfeld!, and provides military analysis across platforms. His no-nonsense style, rooted in personal sacrifice and patriotism, has resonated with audiences, particularly on topics like national security and veteran issues. Sources close to the production note that Gutfeld, a driving force behind the show’s tone, has championed Jones’ increased presence, viewing his authenticity as a dynamic addition.

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Tarlov, a Democratic strategist with a Ph.D. in political science, has been a rotating co-host since 2022, earning praise for her sharp debates while drawing criticism from conservative viewers. She announced her second pregnancy in early 2024 and has taken maternity-related absences, but no official statement confirms her departure. Fox News declined to comment on personnel changes, with a spokesperson reiterating that The Five utilizes rotating panelists to keep discussions fresh.

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The speculation exploded online after a December episode where Jones’ appearance prompted viral posts claiming “Fox News just changed the game” with a “Gutfeld-backed” swap. Entertainment sites amplified the narrative, suggesting the substitution signals a more uniformly conservative tilt amid competitive pressures from streaming and digital media. Viewers have reacted polarizingly: conservative fans celebrate Jones’ heroism and straightforward commentary, while others lament the potential loss of diverse voices.

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Insiders describe the decision—if permanent—as strategic, aiming to energize the format without alienating core demographics. The Five continues to dominate ratings, but evolving viewer preferences have prompted networks to experiment. Jones’ episodes have reportedly drawn strong engagement, with his personal stories adding emotional depth to political discourse.

As 2026 approaches, all eyes remain on the iconic table. Whether this marks a temporary fill-in or a defining shift, one thing is clear: Fox News’ powerhouse panel is evolving, and Johnny Joey Jones is at the center of the conversation.