In a bombshell that sent shockwaves through cable news, Fox News announced on October 28, 2025, that The Five co-host Jessica Tarlov is out, with Sandra Smith stepping in as her replacement in a live on-air reveal that left viewers nationwide reeling. The midday staple, averaging 3.2 million viewers and consistently topping daytime ratings, unveiled the change during its 2 p.m. ET broadcast, with Smith, 44, taking the mic to a mix of cheers and stunned silence. “Today marks an exciting new chapter,” Smith said, her voice steady amid the studio’s palpable tension. “I’m thrilled to join this powerhouse panel and keep the conversations fierce.”
The transition comes amid The Five‘s dominance—up 15% in key demos from last year—but whispers of backstage friction had been swirling. Tarlov, 41, the show’s token liberal voice since 2021, reportedly clashed with conservative co-hosts over her unapologetic takes on issues like abortion rights and election denialism. Insiders tell Variety the decision was “strategic,” aiming to refresh the dynamic with Smith’s poised, bipartisan style. “Jessica brought fire, but Sandra brings balance—without the sparks flying off the rails,” a network source said. Tarlov, in a gracious farewell tweet (1.5M likes), wrote, “Grateful for the debates that defined me. On to the next chapter.”
Smith, a America’s Newsroom veteran since 2018, is no stranger to Fox’s high-stakes panels. Her calm demeanor and financial expertise made her a fan favorite during market volatility segments, and she’s no pushover—her 2024 takedown of a guest denying climate change went viral with 5 million views. Pairing her with Greg Gutfeld, the show’s irreverent ringleader, could spark a renaissance. “Greg’s chaos meets Sandra’s cool—ratings will rocket,” predicts analyst Brian Stelter. Early buzz suggests the shift targets younger viewers (18-34), up 20% for Fox in 2025, by blending humor with substance.
The Five‘s formula—four conservatives, one liberal—has been a ratings juggernaut, often outpacing MSNBC’s The Beat by 40%. Tarlov’s exit, however, raises questions about diversity; her liberal counterpoint balanced the panel’s right-leaning tilt. “Jessica was the spark—Sandra might smooth it, but at what cost?” wondered a former producer. Fox execs counter that Smith’s “independent streak” will keep debates lively.
Fans are divided: #KeepJessica trended with 800k posts, while #WelcomeSandra gained traction. Gutfeld joked on air, “Sandra’s in—now we can talk stocks without the socialism.” Tarlov’s next move? Rumors swirl of a CNN gig or her own podcast.
This shake-up signals Fox’s evolution under Lachlan Murdoch, prioritizing “relatable realism” over polarization. As The Five enters uncharted territory, one thing’s clear: the crown jewel isn’t dimming—it’s evolving. Will Smith’s poise elevate it to new heights, or will the chemistry fizzle? Tune in tomorrow—the stakes have never been higher.
