In an unexpected twist that has shaken both Fox News and its viewers, The Five has undergone a major shake-up with Sandra Smith replacing Jessica Tarlov as co-host, alongside Greg Gutfeld. The announcement, which came as a surprise during a routine episode of the show, has sparked a flurry of reactions across social media and the news world, with fans and industry insiders questioning what this means for the show’s future.

A Live Reveal That Shocked Viewers

The news broke in a seemingly casual moment during a Monday episode of The Five. After discussing border security, Greg Gutfeld turned to the camera and said, “Oh, and by the way—starting today, The Five has a new look. Please welcome Sandra Smith, who will be taking Jessica Tarlov’s seat moving forward.” The revelation left the studio audience shocked, and within moments, social media was ablaze with reactions. Fans were split, with some praising the change, while others expressed concern over the loss of Tarlov’s progressive voice.

“I never saw that coming!” tweeted one viewer. “This is going to change the dynamic of the whole show.”

Why the Change Happened: A Strategic Shift

While Fox News has not formally commented on the specifics of Jessica Tarlov’s departure, sources within the network cite a “strategic programming shift” influenced by internal data and audience feedback. Tarlov, who often played the role of the left-leaning voice on the panel, was known for her sharp clashes with the conservative majority. Her presence often sparked polarized reactions, with some viewers appreciating her perspective, while others felt the debates were too heated.

According to sources, Tarlov will transition to a new role as a special reports analyst, with a focus on Fox’s digital platforms, although it remains unclear if she will continue to appear on-air regularly. This shift comes as part of a broader restructuring of the show to make it more palatable to a wider range of viewers.

“I never saw that coming!” tweeted one viewer. “This is going to change the dynamic of the whole show.”

Why the Change Happened: A Strategic Shift

While Fox News has not formally commented on the specifics of Jessica Tarlov’s departure, sources within the network cite a “strategic programming shift” influenced by internal data and audience feedback. Tarlov, who often played the role of the left-leaning voice on the panel, was known for her sharp clashes with the conservative majority. Her presence often sparked polarized reactions, with some viewers appreciating her perspective, while others felt the debates were too heated.

According to sources, Tarlov will transition to a new role as a special reports analyst, with a focus on Fox’s digital platforms, although it remains unclear if she will continue to appear on-air regularly. This shift comes as part of a broader restructuring of the show to make it more palatable to a wider range of viewers.

Sandra Smith: The New Face of The Five?

Sandra Smith, already a familiar face at Fox News, brings a mix of journalistic expertise, economic insight, and a polished, center-right perspective to the table. Known for her calm demeanor and sharp reporting on America Reports, Smith is seen by many insiders as the perfect counterpart to Gutfeld’s fiery style. “Sandra is sharp, informed, and calm under pressure,” said a former Fox producer. “Her presence will change the entire chemistry of the show—and probably bring a different kind of viewer into the mix.”

With Smith’s addition, The Five is shifting from heated debates to more controlled exchanges, and early reviews suggest a significant change in the show’s tone. Fans who had grown tired of the constant shouting matches between Tarlov and the conservative panelists are welcoming the more civil discussions under Smith’s influence.

Greg Gutfeld’s Influence: A Major Role Behind the Change

There’s little doubt that Greg Gutfeld, the breakout star of The Five, played a major role in pushing for this shift. Known for his edgy humor and dominant presence on the show, Gutfeld has been reportedly advocating for a co-host who can challenge the conversation without derailing it. Smith, with her strong journalistic background and ability to stay calm under pressure, seems like the ideal choice for Gutfeld, who values intelligence and timing in his discussions.

“Greg respects intelligence and timing,” said one source close to the production. “Sandra has both—and she knows how to read the room.” Gutfeld’s influence in shaping the direction of The Five is evident, and it’s clear that he believes Smith will help elevate the show even further.

Fan Reactions: Mixed, But Loud

As expected, the change has sparked mixed reactions from fans. Some longtime viewers who enjoyed the dynamic between Tarlov and the conservatives on the show are voicing their concern about the absence of a strong progressive voice. “Without Jessica, the show risks becoming an echo chamber,” wrote one Reddit user, emphasizing the importance of having diverse viewpoints on the panel.

On the other hand, many fans are embracing the new era. “No more shouting matches—just smart conversation,” one Facebook user commented, celebrating the shift toward more controlled debates. The network is clearly betting on Smith’s ability to bring balance to the conversation while maintaining the show’s engaging dynamic.

What’s Next for Jessica Tarlov?

Despite her departure from The Five, Tarlov is not disappearing from Fox News. Sources suggest she will play a larger role in the network’s expanding digital news platform, including special reports and podcasts. While she has yet to comment publicly on the change, Tarlov shared a brief thank-you message on social media, expressing gratitude for her supporters.

Tarlov’s fans have rallied behind her, noting that her presence as the show’s progressive voice will be missed. However, Tarlov’s new focus on digital media could open new avenues for her career, and her continued work in the network’s digital space will allow her to maintain a connection with her audience.

The Future of The Five and Fox News

The Five has long been one of Fox News’ flagship shows, known for its lively debates and colorful personalities. However, with this significant personnel change, the show’s future is entering a new chapter. While some are questioning the removal of Tarlov and the impact it may have on the show’s credibility, others see the shift as an opportunity for a more balanced, less polarized conversation.

As Sandra Smith settles into her new role and the dynamics of the show evolve, all eyes will be on The Five to see if this change will bring higher ratings or if it will struggle to maintain the same level of engagement that Tarlov helped drive.

Conclusion: A New Era for The Five?

Sandra Smith’s promotion to co-host of The Five represents a significant shift in the show’s tone and dynamic. Whether this move proves to be successful or a misstep remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Fox News landscape is changing, and The Five is at the center of that transformation. With Gutfeld and Smith at the helm, the show will undoubtedly continue to evolve, but will it still resonate with viewers who have grown accustomed to the fiery debates of past years? Only time will tell