doem Despite pulling in a massive 3.851 million viewers, Jessica Tarlov’s seat on The Five may be hanging by a thread — and the rumored replacement has fans in shock. 😱 Sources claim a power struggle is brewing behind the scenes, with former Congressman Harold Ford Jr. being quietly positioned as her permanent successor. The alleged move has split the audience — some cheering the shake-up, others warning it could destroy the chemistry that made the show unbeatable in ratings. But insiders say it all traces back to one tense on-air exchange that may have changed everything. What really happened behind the cameras? And is Fox about to risk its top-rated show over internal politics?
In the high-stakes world of cable news, ratings are king, and Fox News’ The Five wears the crown. The show has dominated the airwaves, posting a record-breaking average of “3.851 million viewers” in the second quarter of 2025, a figure that solidifies its position as a television juggernaut. Yet, beneath this veneer of success, whispers of a significant The Five shakeup are growing louder, threatening to alter the chemistry of the most-watched program in cable news. The rumor mill, churning with increasing intensity, suggests that the network is considering a permanent replacement for one of its most prominent liberal voices, Jessica Tarlov. The man reportedly being tapped for the role is Harold Ford Jr., a former Democratic Congressman who has been a rotating co-host. This potential casting change has ignited a fierce debate among the show’s loyal fanbase and has industry insiders watching closely, wondering if this is a standalone decision or the first move in a much larger strategic prime-time overhaul. The stakes couldn’t be higher as the network navigates this crossroads, balancing its incredible success with the potential risks of tampering with a winning formula.
A Ratings Juggernaut Faces an Internal Crossroads
The Five has consistently outperformed its rivals, including shows in the coveted prime-time slots, making any potential changes to its lineup a matter of intense scrutiny. The speculation about Tarlov’s future gained significant traction after a report on August 30, 2025, which cited sources claiming Harold Ford Jr. was being seriously considered for her permanent seat. The news spread like wildfire across social media, with a single post on X (formerly Twitter) garnering an astonishing “1.7 million views” by September 3, 2025. This viral explosion underscores the passion of the show’s audience and the deep divide created by this potential The Five shakeup. On one side, some viewers see the move as a “bold power shift,” a strategic adjustment to broaden the show’s appeal. On the other, critics warn that removing Tarlov could “upend the show’s dynamic,” potentially alienating the very viewers who tune in for its fiery and unpredictable debates.
The Contenders: Harold Ford Jr. vs. Jessica Tarlov
At the heart of the debate are two starkly different personalities and styles. Jessica Tarlov, who officially joined the show in 2022, has carved out a reputation as a liberal firebrand. She is known for her passionate, often confrontational, defense of her political views, which has made her a lightning rod for both praise and criticism. Her sharp exchanges provide much of the on-air drama that defines the show. According to the LA Times, roughly “20% of The Five’s audience” identifies as Democratic, suggesting her voice resonates with a notable segment of the viewership. However, a recent on-air clash with co-host Jesse Watters was described as a “wrecking ball” moment, reportedly fueling concerns behind the scenes about escalating tensions.
In contrast, Harold Ford Jr. brings a different energy to the table. As a former Congressman, he possesses a deep political pedigree, but it is his calm, measured, and respectful demeanor that has earned him praise. Fan discussions on platforms like Reddit often celebrate his ability to engage in debate without resorting to hostility, positioning him as a potential stabilizing force. For network executives, Ford’s style may represent a strategic opportunity to attract a wider audience in a deeply polarized media environment, offering a less combative but still intellectually robust liberal perspective.
Is This Part of a Bigger Fox News Prime-Time Overhaul?
The speculation surrounding The Five doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Industry analysts suggest this potential move could be a test case for a broader shift in Fox News’ programming strategy. The network is reportedly in the midst of a “$2 billion strategy to challenge legacy networks,” a massive undertaking that could involve re-evaluating its on-air talent and show formats. The potential appointment of Harold Ford Jr., with his more moderate tone, could signal a larger pivot in the network’s prime-time programming. This move, potentially spearheaded by figures like Jeanine Pirro, would test whether a less confrontational liberal voice can maintain the show’s incredible ratings momentum or if the on-air fireworks are essential to its success. Variety has suggested that Ford’s elevation would be a clear indicator of a prime-time overhaul aimed at evolving the network’s voice for the future. Despite the rampant speculation and the high-energy drama playing out in Fox’s New York studios, it is crucial to note that no official exit for Tarlov has been confirmed.
As fans and media observers continue to speculate, the future of cable news’ most-watched show hangs in the balance. The central question remains: will Harold Ford Jr. be tasked with reshaping the dynamic of The Five, or will Jessica Tarlov’s fiery presence continue to define its identity? This captivating saga has become one of the most-watched stories in television, with millions of viewers eagerly awaiting the next chapter. The outcome of this potential The Five shakeup will not only determine the future of a single show but could also offer a glimpse into the evolving strategy of Fox News as it positions itself for the years to come. For now, the network remains silent, allowing the tension, the ratings, and the rumors to build, leaving everyone to wonder what comes next.
