dq. FOX NEWS BOMBSHELL: Johnny Joey Jones Replaces Jessica Tarlov on The Five — A Greg Gutfeld–Backed Move That Stuns the Network

Fox News was rocked this week by a sudden and unexpected shake-up that no one inside the network saw coming. In a move already being described as a full-blown bombshell, Johnny “Joey” Jones has officially replaced Jessica Tarlov on The Five—a decision reportedly backed strongly by Greg Gutfeld and one that has sent shockwaves through Fox News headquarters.

For years, The Five has thrived on ideological contrast, with Jessica Tarlov serving as one of the program’s most prominent liberal voices. Her sharp commentary and frequent clashes with conservative co-hosts helped define the show’s identity. But according to multiple insiders, network leadership believed the program had reached a tipping point—one that demanded a dramatic reset.

That reset arrived swiftly.

Johnny Joey Jones, a retired Marine, Fox News contributor, and outspoken conservative commentator, is now stepping into one of the most visible seats on cable news. The announcement stunned both staff and viewers, triggering immediate speculation about the future direction of The Five and the broader strategy unfolding at Fox News.

Sources inside the network say Greg Gutfeld played a key role in championing the change. Known for his influence and ratings dominance, Gutfeld has increasingly shaped the tone and direction of Fox’s most-watched programming. Insiders describe him as pushing for a panel that feels “less scripted, more authentic, and unapologetically bold.”

“Gutfeld wanted someone who speaks from lived experience, not talking points,” one source said. “Joey Jones fits that vision perfectly.”

Jones brings a powerful personal story to the table. After losing both legs while serving in Afghanistan, he has become a respected voice on veterans’ issues, American values, and national identity. His commentary often blends patriotism with blunt realism—qualities that Fox executives reportedly believe resonate strongly with their core audience.

The reaction was immediate and intense.

Within minutes of the news breaking, social media lit up with praise, outrage, and disbelief. Supporters applauded the decision as a long-overdue shift, arguing that Jones represents “authentic America” and brings moral clarity to a show that had grown overly combative. Many hailed the move as a win for viewers who felt the panel’s debates had become repetitive and predictable.

Critics, however, were far less enthusiastic. Some accused Fox News of eliminating ideological diversity and silencing dissenting viewpoints. Others questioned whether The Five can maintain its dynamic edge without a consistent liberal counterbalance, warning that the show risks becoming an echo chamber.

The network, for its part, has remained tight-lipped about the specifics behind Tarlov’s exit. No official statement has confirmed whether the change is permanent or part of a broader restructuring. Still, multiple sources suggest the decision was strategic rather than reactive—part of a larger effort to recalibrate Fox News’ primetime identity.

Behind the scenes, the move reflects mounting pressure on cable news networks to retain loyal audiences in an increasingly fragmented media landscape. Ratings matter more than ever, and Fox News has shown a willingness to make bold personnel changes to protect its dominance.

For Greg Gutfeld, the stakes are personal as well as professional. As one of the network’s most powerful figures, his support of Jones signals a clear vision: fewer ideological sparring matches for their own sake, and more emotionally grounded storytelling that reinforces Fox’s brand.

Jones’ first appearances on The Five are already drawing strong viewer engagement, with fans praising his calm demeanor and directness. Unlike traditional pundits, he speaks less like a debater and more like a witness—someone shaped by real-world consequences rather than cable news theatrics.

Still, the long-term impact of the switch remains uncertain. Will audiences embrace the new dynamic? Will Fox introduce another liberal voice elsewhere to balance the panel? And what does Jessica Tarlov’s departure mean for the future of dissenting perspectives on the network?

One thing is clear: Fox News has made a statement.

By placing Johnny Joey Jones at the table—and doing so with Greg Gutfeld’s unmistakable backing—the network is signaling a shift toward a more assertive, values-driven lineup. Whether that move strengthens The Five or fuels further controversy, it has already achieved one undeniable result: everyone is talking.

In the fast-moving world of cable news, moments like this define eras. And with this stunning replacement, Fox News has drawn a bold new line—one that could reshape its most influential show for years to come.