In a remarkable disclosure that has sent shockwaves through the media industry, Geraldo Rivera, an experienced journalist and television figure, has revealed the true motivations for his exit from Fox News after more than twenty years with the organization. Rivera’s frank comments, shared during a recent guest appearance on The View, illuminate the escalating conflicts at The Five, where he participated as a rotating liberal commentator alongside conservative personalities such as Jesse Watters, Dana Perino, Jeanine Pirro, and Greg Gutfeld.

Rivera, renowned for his reporting on significant global events and his enduring position at Fox News, has disclosed that a ‘toxic relationship’ with a co-host from The Five significantly influenced his choice to depart from the network. His remarks regarding the discord have shed light on the internal dynamics of the show and the difficulties of operating within a high-pressure, politically charged atmosphere.

The Event That Led to Rivera’s Exit

Rivera has been a prominent presence at Fox News since his arrival in 2001, establishing himself as a war correspondent in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks and earning acclaim for his reporting on the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Nevertheless, in recent years, his association with the network, especially his role on The Five, has become progressively tense.

Rivera stated that the decisive moment occurred when Fox News executives notified him of his removal from The Five. Although he initially claimed that his exit was voluntary, he has now disclosed that he was, in reality, dismissed from the program. During his appearance on The View, Rivera recounted, ‘I received a call from two female executives who informed me,

The departure, nonetheless, carried considerable emotional weight. Rivera recognized that the days preceding his exit were marked by expressions of warmth and gratitude from his coworkers, despite underlying tensions. He conceded that his experience on the show was tumultuous, yet he conveyed profound appreciation for his tenure at Fox News, especially his role as a war correspondent.

Rivera’s remarks indicate that the escalating tensions at The Five stemmed not only from political disagreements but also from a personal conflict with one of his fellow co-hosts. Although Rivera refrained from disclosing the individual’s identity, he emphasized that the relationship had become intolerable. ‘I found it quite unjust that I was not evaluated fairly during our disagreements, as he was consistently favored,’ Rivera stated. ‘I faced suspension on three occasions, and my appearances were diminished from two to three times a week, to bi-weekly, then monthly, and eventually they nearly vanished.’

The mention of being ‘suspended’ and ‘reduced’ regarding appearances suggests an increasing estrangement between Rivera and the show’s management, which ultimately resulted in his reduced involvement in the program. He also hinted that this trend of exclusion was not a reflection of his professional capabilities, but rather stemmed from personal relationships with his co-hosts.

Although the identity of the co-host remains uncertain, numerous fans speculate that the underlying tension may stem from his disagreements with the more conservative members of The Five, particularly Greg Gutfeld, with whom Rivera has had several public disputes. The most significant confrontation took place in April 2025, during a debate about electric vehicles, where Rivera admonished Gutfeld by saying, ‘Stop pointing at me,’ after a particularly intense exchange. The ongoing friction between the two has been a recurring theme on the program, as Rivera’s more liberal perspectives frequently conflict with the strong conservative viewpoints of his colleagues.

Rivera’s Legacy: A Pioneer in Journalism and Television

Despite the controversial circumstances surrounding his departure from The Five, Rivera’s impact on Fox News remains significant. He was recognized for his courageous reporting in war zones and his talent for uncovering major news events throughout his career. As a war correspondent, he reported on critical events in contemporary history, such as the Iraq War and the repercussions of 9/11. Rivera’s influence on Fox News’ reporting of international affairs is profound, and his exit signifies the conclusion of a notable chapter for the network.

Rivera conveyed a sense of ambivalence regarding his departure. He remarked, ‘This has been an exhilarating journey,’ during his concluding days at the network. ‘I will forever cherish my experiences at Fox, but it is now time for me to advance to new opportunities.’

At the age of 80, Rivera continues to be a prominent figure in journalism. His career has lasted for decades, and while his exit from Fox News signifies the conclusion of a significant era, it does not diminish his influence in the media industry. Whether he embarks on new endeavors or chooses to relish his retirement, Rivera’s contribution to the realm of television news remains firmly established.

Conclusion: The Conclusion of an Era, Yet the Dawn of a New Chapter

Geraldo Rivera’s exit from Fox News and The Five has sparked considerable speculation within the media regarding potential internal disputes, ideological divergences, and the evolving dynamics of the network. His departure not only prompts inquiries about the show’s future but also underscores the intricate relationships that influence the television industry.

Rivera’s influence as a groundbreaking journalist and his contribution to establishing Fox News as a significant entity in American media is undeniable. As the industry progresses, Rivera’s exit highlights the difficulties encountered by professionals in the competitive realm of cable news. From managing personal disputes to adapting to the shifting political environment, media personalities such as Rivera will persist in making an impact on the field.

Currently, attention turns to The Five and the future of the show in the absence of Rivera. The direction of Fox News’ programming and its strategy for maintaining ideological balance is yet to be determined; however, it is evident that Rivera’s exit signifies the conclusion of a significant chapter for the network.