Fox News’ ‘The Five’ Breaks 4 Million Viewers as Trump Ally Alina Habba Eyed for Major Role

Fox News continues its reign as the undisputed leader in cable news, with several flagship programs shattering viewership records — and none more so than the network’s 5 p.m. juggernaut, The Five.

According to Ad Week, The Five once again crossed the 4-million-viewer threshold this week, pulling in a staggering 4.06 million total viewers. The panel show, co-hosted by Jesse Watters and Greg Gutfeld, also topped the critical Adults 25-54 demographic — a key metric for advertisers.

In comparison, MSNBC’s Deadline: White House with Nicole Wallace edged out The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell by only 9,000 viewers, while CNN’s The Lead with Jake Tapper marked the network’s most-watched hour — but still trailed far behind.

Fox’s dominance didn’t stop at 5 p.m. Jesse Watters, who now anchors the 8 p.m. hour, crushed his competition with 3.58 million viewers. CNN’s Anderson Cooper brought in just 582,000, while MSNBC’s Chris Hayes drew 811,000.

Greg Gutfeld, the late-night king, also continued to outpace his rivals in the 10 p.m. slot, drawing 3.03 million viewers. CNN’s Abby Phillip garnered 512,000, and O’Donnell returned at 10 p.m. on MSNBC with 1.06 million.

This ratings surge comes as The Five undergoes a significant transition: Judge Jeanine Pirro, a cornerstone of the program, has been appointed by President Donald Trump to serve as interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.

“I am pleased to announce that Judge Jeanine Pirro will be appointed interim United States Attorney for the District of Columbia,” the president wrote on Truth Social. “Jeanine is incredibly well qualified for this position, and is considered one of the Top District Attorneys in the History of the State of New York. She is in a class by herself. Congratulations Jeanine!”

Fox News quickly responded with praise for Pirro’s long-standing contributions to the network.

“Jeanine Pirro has been a wonderful addition to The Five over the last three years and a longtime beloved host across FOX News Media who contributed greatly to our success throughout her 14-year tenure. We wish her all the best in her new role in Washington,” a Fox News spokesperson stated.

Amid the shake-up, reports are swirling about who may fill the high-profile vacancy. According to The Daily Mail, the White House is considering Alina Habba — former personal attorney to President Trump and current interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey — as a possible successor.

While Fox News sources insist that no formal replacement process has begun, the speculation continues to build.

“Discussions about a permanent replacement have not even started, so her name can’t be part of the mix,” a Fox insider told The Daily Mail.

In the meantime, a rotation of Fox News personalities will continue to occupy the open seat until a full-time host is named.

Still, momentum appears to be building around Habba. A source close to the White House noted her sharp legal mind and commanding on-air presence could make her the ideal heir to Pirro’s fiery legacy.

“There aren’t many people who can fill a Jeanine personality void. Alina’s the one,” the source said.

The move also comes after Republican Senator Thom Tillis blocked the confirmation of Ed Martin, the previous interim U.S. Attorney for D.C., creating a leadership vacuum that Judge Pirro will now fill.

As The Five continues to deliver unmatched ratings and star power, its next chapter promises to be just as impactful — especially with President Trump’s trusted circle playing an increasingly visible role.