Fox News Dominates 2022 Cable News Ratings with Broad Appeal and Record-Breaking Shows

In 2022, Fox News solidified its position as the unrivaled leader in cable news, outpacing competitors MSNBC and CNN to claim the title of the top cable network for the seventh consecutive year.

According to Nielsen Media Research, 2022 marked the third-highest-rated year in cable news history for total day viewers, with Fox News leading in both primetime and total day ratings.

This article explores the factors behind Fox News’s dominance, the standout success of its show The Five, and the network’s unique ability to attract a diverse audience, as highlighted by CEO Suzanne Scott.

Unprecedented Ratings Success

Fox News’s 2022 performance was nothing short of historic. The network averaged a commanding audience across both primetime (8-11 p.m. ET) and total day metrics, surpassing MSNBC and CNN by wide margins. Nielsen/MRI Fusion data reveals that Fox News captured a 53% share of the coveted adults aged 25-54 demographic during total day and primetime, a testament to its broad appeal.

This demographic, highly valued by advertisers, underscores Fox News’s ability to resonate with younger viewers, a group often considered elusive in traditional media.

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The network’s primetime lineup drew millions nightly, with shows like Jesse Watters Primetime, Hannity, and The Ingraham Angle consistently ranking among the top-rated programs. However, it was The Five, airing at 5 p.m. ET, that made history as the first non-primetime show to lead cable news in total viewers for an entire year,

averaging an impressive 3,432,000 viewers. This achievement outstripped every daytime and primetime offering on MSNBC and CNN, cementing Fox News’s dominance across all time slots.

The Five: A Game-Changer in Cable News

The Five has become a cultural phenomenon, redefining what a cable news program can achieve. Its unique format—featuring a rotating panel of five hosts engaging in lively debates—sets it apart from traditional news shows. The diverse perspectives of hosts like Greg Gutfeld,

Dana Perino, and Jesse Watters create a dynamic mix of humor, insight, and spirited arguments that captivate audiences. This structure allows The Five to blend news analysis with entertainment, making it accessible and engaging for a wide range of viewers.

In 2022, The Five not only topped cable news ratings but also outperformed many broadcast network programs. Its 3.43 million average viewers marked a historic milestone, proving that compelling content can draw massive audiences outside the traditional primetime window.

The show’s success lies in its ability to tackle serious issues—such as inflation, crime, and foreign policy—while maintaining an approachable, conversational tone. This balance has made The Five a must-watch for cable news fans, contributing significantly to Fox News’s overall ratings triumph.

Broad Appeal Across Demographics

One of Fox News’s most remarkable achievements in 2022 was its ability to attract viewers from across the political spectrum. Nielsen/MRI Fusion statistics show that more Democrats, Independents, and Republicans tuned into Fox News than any other cable network.

This cross-partisan appeal challenges the narrative that Fox News caters solely to conservative audiences. Instead, the network’s mix of news and opinion programming resonates with viewers seeking perspectives they may not find elsewhere.

The network’s dominance among adults aged 25-54 further highlights its versatility. Unlike MSNBC and CNN, which have struggled to maintain younger viewers, Fox News has successfully captured this demographic through a combination of relatable hosts and relevant topics.

Programs like Gutfeld!, with its satirical take on current events, and Fox & Friends, a morning staple, have proven particularly effective in engaging younger audiences. This demographic strength has bolstered Fox News’s advertising revenue, as brands prioritize platforms with strong reach among working-age adults.

Suzanne Scott’s Vision: Unique Programming

Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott attributes the network’s 2022 success to its “unique news and opinion shows that appeal to a wide range of cable news viewers.” Under her leadership, Fox News has prioritized innovative programming that blends hard-hitting journalism with personality-driven commentary. This approach has allowed the network to stand out in a crowded media landscape, where competitors often rely on predictable formats.

Scott’s emphasis on diversity of thought is evident in the network’s lineup. Shows like Special Report with Bret Baier offer in-depth reporting, while The Ingraham Angle and Hannity deliver bold opinions that resonate with viewers seeking unfiltered perspectives.

This mix ensures that Fox News caters to both news junkies and casual viewers, creating a loyal audience base that spans generations and ideologies. Scott’s strategy has paid dividends, as evidenced by Fox News’s ability to outperform even broadcast giants like ABC and NBC in key metrics.

Competitive Landscape: MSNBC and CNN Struggle

While Fox News soared, MSNBC and CNN faced significant challenges in 2022. MSNBC averaged 1.49 million primetime viewers, while CNN trailed with 654,000, both dwarfed by Fox News’s 2.4 million. In the 25-54 demographic, Fox News’s 303,000 viewers far outpaced MSNBC’s 163,000 and CNN’s 141,000.

These gaps widened throughout the year, with Fox News capturing 65% of the total cable news audience in some months.

MSNBC’s reliance on shows like The Rachel Maddow Show provided some stability, but the network struggled to maintain momentum post-election. CNN, meanwhile, faced internal turmoil, including high-profile departures and a pivot toward more neutral reporting, which alienated some of its core audience.

Both networks saw double-digit declines in key demographics compared to 2021, while Fox News posted gains, further widening the gap.

Why Fox News Resonates

Fox News’s 2022 dominance can be attributed to several factors. First, its programming reflects the concerns of everyday Americans, addressing issues like economic uncertainty and cultural shifts with a directness that resonates.

Second, the network’s hosts—many of whom are household names—forge personal connections with viewers, fostering loyalty. Finally, Fox News’s willingness to challenge mainstream narratives appeals to audiences skeptical of traditional media, a sentiment echoed in posts on X praising the network’s “unfiltered” approach.

The network’s coverage of major events, such as the midterm elections and global conflicts, also drew massive audiences. Fox News’s ability to frame these stories through a lens that resonates with its viewers—emphasizing patriotism, individual liberty, and skepticism of institutional power—has proven a winning formula.

This approach contrasts with MSNBC and CNN, which often align with progressive or establishment perspectives, limiting their appeal in a polarized climate.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining the Lead

As Fox News celebrates its seventh year as the top cable network, the challenge lies in maintaining its momentum. The media landscape is evolving, with streaming platforms and digital outlets vying for attention.

Fox News has already adapted by expanding its digital presence through Fox Nation and investing in podcasts, ensuring it remains relevant to younger, cord-cutting audiences.

The network’s focus on innovation, as championed by Suzanne Scott, will be critical. By continuing to develop shows like The Five and nurturing new talent, Fox News can stay ahead of competitors.

Additionally, its cross-partisan appeal positions it to weather political shifts, unlike MSNBC and CNN, which remain closely tied to specific ideological bases.

Conclusion: A Historic Year

Fox News’s 2022 performance was a masterclass in media dominance, driven by record-breaking shows, broad demographic appeal, and a commitment to unique programming. The Five’s historic achievement and the network’s ability to attract Democrats, Independents, and Republicans alike underscore its unparalleled influence.

As CEO Suzanne Scott noted, Fox News’s success stems from its ability to connect with a diverse audience through compelling content. With a 53% share of the 25-54 demographic and a seventh consecutive year at the top, Fox News has solidified its place as the premier cable news network, setting the stage for continued leadership in 2023 and beyond.

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