Fox’s Harris Faulkner Surpasses ‘The View’ In Ratings For First Time
Fox News anchor Harris Faulkner received some exciting news, which is sure to leave liberals fuming.
For the first time, her program, "The Faulkner Focus," surpassed the viewership of ABC’s daytime talk show, "The View."
"Heartfelt gratitude to the beloved viewers of FOX and Faulkner Focus. And big thanks to Forbes for showing our 11 am ET daytime team some love," Faulkner shared on X.
This achievement is particularly noteworthy given that "The View" is broadcast on network television, reaching a broader audience, whereas Faulkner’s show is only available to cable subscribers. As more people "cut the cord," the potential viewership for cable programming continues to shrink.
"I could not grab this big win without my wonderful team," Faulkner told Forbes. "It’s a testament to the hard work and passion we put into bringing Americans the latest news and analysis on what matters most to them. The Faulkner Focus is a place where audiences can tune in and know their questions about the day’s headlines will be answered with respect for all sides, and we are proud viewers continue to choose us at 11 a.m."
Additionally, Fox News had a record-breaking month, with its primetime lineup averaging 2.8 million viewers. Among the key advertising demographic of adults aged 25-54, the network pulled in an average of 353,000 viewers.
"As we mark 23 years as America’s most-watched cable news network, I would like to thank our incredible team both on and off the camera for their dedication to delivering the best product in news," Fox News Media CEO Suzanne Scott said. "Each year, we surpass new milestones, continue to innovate, and outperform the competition due to their tireless efforts and I could not be prouder."
Meanwhile, other networks are struggling.
In an effort to "modernize" their operations, CNN and NBC are preparing to lay off hundreds of employees. However, for now, on-air talent will not be affected by the cuts.
CNN CEO Mark Thompson confirmed the layoffs in a memo to employees on Thursday, following a CNBC report from Wednesday detailing the upcoming job reductions. In his statement, Thompson emphasized that CNN would be investing $70 million into new digital initiatives while minimizing the overall decrease in staffing.
"I know that whatever the total number of job losses, the impact on the individuals involved can be immense," Thompson wrote in the memo obtained by CNBC. "The process of change is essential if we’re to thrive in the future, but I both acknowledge and regret its very real human consequences."
Overall, the network is expected to cut approximately 6 percent of its workforce, equating to roughly 210 jobs.
As CNN works to restructure its traditional television programming, it is also focusing on expanding digital subscriptions. The staff reductions are aimed at lowering production costs and streamlining operations, according to sources familiar with the matter. Some New York and Washington-based programs may shift to Atlanta, where production expenses are lower, the sources added.
The job cuts are not expected to impact CNN’s most recognizable on-air personalities, who remain under contract, according to insiders. Currently, CNN employs around 3,500 people worldwide, CNBC reported.
Additionally, CNN is rolling out new digital initiatives. The company is working on a method for digital subscribers to access CNN content beyond CNN Max, which is part of Warner Bros. Discovery’s broader Max streaming service.