FOX NEWS SHOCKER: Sandra Smith Officially Replaces Jessica Tarlov on The Five

In a stunning move that caught both viewers and industry insiders off guard, Fox News announced live on-air that longtime anchor Sandra Smith will be stepping in as the newest co-host of The Five, officially replacing Jessica Tarlov.

The announcement came during Wednesday’s broadcast, immediately setting social media ablaze and sending ripple effects through the media world. For millions of Fox viewers, this was more than just a staffing change—it was a major shake-up in one of the most-watched programs in cable news.

A Sudden, On-Air Reveal

Unlike many network reshuffles that are carefully choreographed through press releases and behind-the-scenes whispers, Fox News chose a far bolder approach. Midway through the live broadcast, co-host Greg Gutfeld pivoted to break the news directly to viewers:

“Ladies and gentlemen, big update for The Five. As of today, Sandra Smith is joining us full-time at this table. She’s officially part of the family.”

The studio erupted in applause as cameras cut to Smith, smiling but visibly emotional. For her, this was more than just a career shift—it was a rare vote of confidence from a network that has recently faced ratings turbulence, legal controversies, and behind-the-scenes turnover.

Who Is Sandra Smith?

Sandra Smith is hardly a stranger to Fox audiences. She has been with the network since 2007, most prominently co-anchoring America’s Newsroom and previously hosting Outnumbered. Known for her poised delivery, sharp interviewing style, and ability to balance hard news with panel banter, Smith has long been viewed as one of Fox’s most versatile talents.

Her transition to The Five marks a significant shift from traditional daytime news anchoring to the more personality-driven, opinion-heavy format of evening talk. That shift raises questions: Will Smith lean into the combative back-and-forth that defines The Five, or will she bring a steadier, journalistic tone to the table?

Jessica Tarlov’s Departure

The other half of the story, of course, is Jessica Tarlov’s exit. Tarlov, the lone liberal voice on The Five for much of the past few years, carved out a unique space for herself on the show. As a Democratic strategist and seasoned political analyst, she frequently sparred with Gutfeld, Dana Perino, Jesse Watters, and Judge Jeanine Pirro—often serving as the counterweight to the panel’s conservative majority.

Fox did not offer an immediate explanation for Tarlov’s departure. In a brief statement released later that evening, the network thanked her for her contributions and noted that she would “pursue new opportunities.” Insiders, however, hint that Tarlov had grown frustrated with her role as the perennial “one against four” voice. While her presence was critical for ideological balance, it also placed her under relentless fire from both her co-hosts and Fox’s predominantly conservative audience.

Viewer Reaction: Shockwaves Online

Within minutes of the announcement, hashtags like #SandraOnTheFive and #TarlovExit were trending on X (formerly Twitter). The responses reflected the divided loyalties of Fox’s audience:

Supporters of Smith hailed the decision, calling her “the upgrade Fox needed” and praising her “professionalism and class.”
Fans of Tarlov accused Fox of silencing its only reliable liberal voice, warning that the show risked becoming an echo chamber.
Neutral observers simply expressed shock at the abrupt, on-air reveal, describing it as “the most Fox News thing ever.”

Memes, clips, and side-by-side comparisons of Smith and Tarlov flooded social platforms, underscoring just how invested viewers are in the personalities behind The Five.

Why The Five Matters

To understand the stakes, it’s important to grasp the role The Five plays in Fox’s lineup. Since debuting in 2011, the show has become one of the crown jewels of the network, regularly topping ratings in its 5 p.m. slot and often outperforming primetime competition across all cable networks.

The format is deceptively simple: five rotating hosts gather to discuss the day’s top stories, with an emphasis on humor, personality, and sharp exchanges. What sets it apart is the chemistry—and sometimes chaos—that unfolds live on-air. Fans tune in not just for news, but for the unscripted moments that can turn into viral clips.

By placing Sandra Smith at the table, Fox is signaling that it wants to double down on star power while perhaps toning down some of the raw ideological clashes that defined Tarlov’s tenure.

Behind the Scenes at Fox

Industry insiders suggest that this move may be part of a larger strategic shift within Fox News leadership. With competition from Newsmax and digital-first outlets intensifying, Fox is under pressure to retain its dominance. Recent controversies, including the billion-dollar Dominion lawsuit settlement, have also made executives wary of on-air confrontations that could spiral into legal or PR headaches.

Sandra Smith, with her reputation as a measured, credible journalist, could be the “safe pair of hands” Fox wants as it navigates the next chapter.

What’s Next for Tarlov?

As for Jessica Tarlov, speculation is already mounting about her next move. Some insiders believe she may transition to another network, potentially CNN or MSNBC, where her political analysis could find a more welcoming audience. Others suggest she could pivot to academia, writing, or even political consulting full-time.

One thing is clear: Tarlov has built a loyal following, and her absence from The Five leaves a noticeable gap that even Sandra Smith’s star power may not immediately fill.

A Gamble That Could Pay Off—or Backfire

Ultimately, Fox’s decision to swap Tarlov for Smith is a gamble. On one hand, Smith’s professionalism and popularity could broaden the show’s appeal and stabilize its image at a time when cable news faces fragmentation. On the other, removing the most prominent liberal voice from The Five risks alienating a portion of its audience and reinforcing the perception of ideological homogeneity.

Viewers will be watching closely in the coming weeks: Will Smith rise to the challenge of matching Gutfeld’s wit, Watters’ swagger, and Pirro’s firebrand energy? Or will she serve as a calming, moderating force in a show that thrives on conflict?

A Defining Moment for Fox

For Fox News, this is more than just a casting change. It’s a defining moment for the future of its most popular program. By choosing Sandra Smith over Jessica Tarlov, the network is betting on stability, credibility, and audience loyalty. Whether that bet pays off—or backfires spectacularly—will shape not only The Five but also Fox’s broader identity in a rapidly shifting media landscape.

One thing’s certain: in the ever-theatrical world of cable news, the drama doesn’t end when the cameras stop rolling.