Jesse Watters is stepping into a monumental role as he takes over Tucker Carlson’s 8 p.m. EDT primetime slot on Fox News. After Carlson’s sudden departure in April 2025, Watters, known for his sharp political commentary, brash wit, and unapologetic views, is ready to fill the shoes of the network’s former golden boy. The move marks the next chapter in Watters’ remarkable journey from a production assistant in 2004 to one of the most recognized faces in conservative media. But with the weight of Carlson’s massive audience on his shoulders, the question remains: is Watters up to the challenge of maintaining the high ratings and captivating viewers in the way Carlson once did?

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Watters, who previously anchored Jesse Watters Primetime at 7 p.m. and co-hosted The Five, is no stranger to Fox News’ demanding spotlight. His career has been built on his ability to speak bluntly and engage in combative political discourse, but stepping into Carlson’s role brings new pressure. Carlson’s show, often pulling in over 3 million viewers, was a cornerstone of Fox’s primetime lineup. Now, Watters must find a way to replicate that success, or even exceed it, in what is undoubtedly one of the most coveted time slots in cable news.

However, Watters remains undeterred by the daunting task ahead. “I’m not competing against Tucker; I’m not competing against anyone,” Watters said confidently in a recent interview. “I’m not going to go out and chase ratings. I’m not trying to reinvent the wheel. We’ve been very successful at 7:00. The show is not going to change. I’m not going to change.” This steadfast approach reflects Watters’ belief in his ability to deliver the same style of engaging commentary that has made him a household name, without trying to mimic what Carlson did before him.

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Though Watters’ new primetime position comes with a level of risk, it also presents a unique opportunity for him to cement his status as one of Fox News’ leading figures. Known for his “brutally honest” approach to news and his unapologetically conservative viewpoints, Watters has made an impact on viewers who appreciate his straightforward commentary, often laced with humor and satire. While this style has earned him a loyal following, it has also attracted criticism, particularly from liberal commentators and viewers who accuse him of being too combative and dismissive of opposing views.

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Still, Watters remains unphased by the blowback. “I’m not nasty; I’m brutally honest,” he says, emphasizing that his approach is a necessary part of the cable news landscape. “In cable TV, you have to be blunt, concise, direct, and go right to the bone.” This unapologetic attitude has served him well in his career thus far, and as he moves into the 8 p.m. hour, it will likely continue to be a defining characteristic of his new primetime show.

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However, with great opportunity comes great scrutiny. The 8 p.m. slot is one of the most fiercely competitive time slots in cable news, and it’s no secret that Carlson’s departure has left a void that Fox News is eager to fill. Watters’ success in the role will be measured not only by his ability to maintain the show’s viewership but also by his ability to connect with the broader audience that has long been loyal to Carlson. As his show debuts in this prime spot, Watters must prove that he can handle the pressure and keep the momentum going, while offering his own unique brand of commentary and perspective.

Beyond the ratings, Watters faces the challenge of continuing the type of coverage that Carlson’s audience expects—aggressive, unapologetic, and deeply rooted in conservative viewpoints. Watters has made a name for himself by focusing on issues that resonate with conservative viewers, such as culture wars, immigration, and government accountability. He’s shown that he can hold politicians accountable and expose the hypocrisy he sees within the political establishment. But as he moves into the coveted 8 p.m. hour, Watters must ensure that he can balance this high-energy, provocative approach with the need for thoughtful analysis and engaging content that attracts both casual and loyal viewers.

In the years ahead, Watters will likely face even greater scrutiny and pressure to perform, but his past success and his willingness to embrace controversy suggest that he’s ready for whatever challenges lie ahead. The next few months will be critical as Watters settles into his new role and works to solidify Jesse Watters Primetime as the successor to Carlson’s massive legacy.

Whether you love him or hate him, one thing is clear—Jesse Watters is prepared to take on the big leagues and lead Fox News’ primetime programming into its next chapter. As the media landscape shifts, Watters’ rise to the 8 p.m. slot marks a key moment in his career, and his ability to navigate this high-pressure environment will shape the future of Fox News’ primetime offerings. For now, the question remains: Can Watters replicate Carlson’s success, or will the weight of this high-profile role prove to be too much? Only time will tell.