"The Five" Marks 15 Years as Cable News' Top-Rated Program

Fox News' "The Five" is celebrating 15 years on air as the most-watched program in cable news, consistently drawing an average of more than 3.8 million viewers per episode and frequently outperforming even major broadcast network staples.

The panel show’s success stems from its light-hearted approach and dynamic format, according to co-host Greg Gutfeld. “We don’t take ourselves too seriously,” Gutfeld said, highlighting the program’s unpredictable, freewheeling conversations that extend well beyond politics to keep audiences engaged.

What started as a temporary experiment has transformed into a long-running ratings powerhouse that continues to dominate its time slot day after day.

Fellow co-hosts Jesse Watters, Dana Perino, Harold Ford Jr., and Jessica Tarlov point to the strong personal chemistry and genuine friendships among the panel as central to the show’s appeal. Despite often spirited debates, they say mutual respect allows for robust ideological clashes without descending into hostility.

The program’s signature format—pairing conservative and Democratic voices—sets it apart by showcasing real disagreement alongside civil discourse. Viewers tune in daily to see opposing viewpoints expressed openly yet respectfully, a rarity that has helped build and sustain its loyal audience over a decade and a half. 

This combination of authenticity, humor, and balanced conflict has turned "The Five" into more than just a news show—it has become a cultural fixture where serious topics meet entertaining, unpredictable discussion.