Sandra Smith Joins Greg Gutfeld on The Five: A Bold New Era for Fox News

In a surprising move that has already sent ripples through the media world, Fox News has announced that longtime anchor Sandra Smith will be joining Greg Gutfeld as his new co-host on The Five, replacing a longstanding lineup that had become familiar to millions of viewers. The announcement, revealed live on-air in a segment that caught even seasoned insiders off guard, has ignited a wave of buzz across television, social media, and the political landscape.

Smith, a respected and recognizable figure at Fox News, is stepping into one of the most prominent roles of her career. By pairing her with Greg Gutfeld—the network’s resident satirist and cultural commentator—Fox is making a statement about where it sees the future of its programming heading. The decision has sparked both excitement and uncertainty: will this bold shift revitalize one of Fox’s flagship shows, or disrupt the chemistry that has made The Five such a consistent ratings winner?

The Announcement That Shook Up Fox

For years, The Five has been one of the crown jewels of Fox News programming. Airing during the late afternoon, it occupies a coveted time slot where politics and entertainment often collide, drawing millions of viewers with its mix of conservative commentary, lighthearted banter, and heated debate. Its rotating cast of hosts—including Gutfeld, Jesse Watters, Dana Perino, and others—has built a loyal following.

That’s why the news that Sandra Smith would be stepping in as a permanent co-host alongside Gutfeld stunned both fans and media insiders. The announcement was made during a live broadcast, with producers leaning into the drama of the reveal. Within moments, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram lit up with reactions.

“Loving the new vibe already. Sandra Smith and Greg Gutfeld are going to be unstoppable together!” one fan tweeted. Another admitted more hesitation: “I’ve been watching The Five for years, and I’m not sure how I feel about this shift. It’s going to take some time to adjust.”

This mixture of enthusiasm and cautious skepticism reflects the high stakes involved. Fox is not simply adding a new face—it is recalibrating the chemistry of its most-watched hour of cable news.

Sandra Smith: A Steady Hand in the Storm

For those familiar with Fox News, Sandra Smith needs little introduction. Over the past decade, she has become one of the network’s most trusted and respected voices. Known for her calm demeanor, clear delivery, and sharp political and economic analysis, Smith has anchored America’s Newsroom, co-hosted Outnumbered, and frequently appeared as a contributor across Fox’s programming.

Her background is distinctive. A graduate of Louisiana State University, Smith began her career in the world of finance before transitioning to broadcast journalism. That grounding in economics and business gave her credibility during the tumultuous financial crises of the late 2000s and early 2010s, when viewers were hungry for clarity amidst chaos.

Since then, Smith has steadily built her reputation as a journalist capable of balancing professionalism with relatability. Her ability to break down complex issues—whether economic data, foreign policy, or election dynamics—has made her a favorite among viewers seeking clarity without condescension.

By elevating her to a co-hosting role on The Five, Fox News is signaling that Smith is not just a reliable anchor but one of the network’s key strategic assets.

Greg Gutfeld: The Wild Card

If Sandra Smith is the steady hand, Greg Gutfeld is the wild card. With his irreverent humor, biting wit, and often controversial commentary, Gutfeld has carved out a unique space at Fox News. As host of the late-night show Gutfeld!, he has proven that political satire can compete directly with mainstream comedy programs on other networks.

Gutfeld’s appeal lies in his willingness to say the unsayable, to mock sacred cows, and to inject humor into discussions that might otherwise feel dour or repetitive. His satirical takes on the day’s headlines often go viral, resonating with viewers who feel alienated by traditional media’s solemn tone.

Pairing Gutfeld with Smith is a calculated risk. On paper, their contrasting styles—her measured analysis versus his comedic irreverence—could create a balance that appeals to a broader demographic. But it could also create friction if the dynamic fails to click.

As one media analyst put it: “Sandra brings gravitas, Greg brings humor. The big question is whether the audience will see this as oil and water—or as the perfect cocktail.”

The Changing Landscape of Fox News

This shake-up comes at a critical moment for Fox News. The network remains dominant in cable news, but the industry is changing rapidly. Streaming platforms, podcasts, and social media have reshaped how audiences consume political commentary. Meanwhile, competitors on both the left and right are nipping at Fox’s heels, offering alternative voices that challenge its supremacy.

For Fox, the challenge is twofold: retain its loyal conservative base while also expanding to younger, more diverse audiences. This is no easy task, especially in a polarized environment where even subtle shifts in tone can trigger backlash.

By pairing Smith and Gutfeld, Fox appears to be betting on a strategy of balance: keep the humor and cultural edge that Gutfeld represents while adding the professionalism and analytical clarity that Smith embodies.

Audience Reaction: Excitement Meets Skepticism

Since the announcement, reactions from viewers have ranged from jubilant to cautious. Supporters argue that Smith’s presence will elevate the program, bringing credibility and poise that will complement Gutfeld’s humor. Critics worry that the change could disrupt the show’s chemistry, particularly among longtime viewers who have grown attached to the existing lineup.

“I think it’s a brilliant move,” one fan posted on Facebook. “Sandra has the brains, Greg has the jokes—it’s going to be the perfect mix.”

Others were less convinced. “The Five has always worked because of the group dynamic,” a longtime viewer wrote. “If you change that too much, you risk losing what made it special in the first place.”

Regardless of opinion, one thing is clear: people are paying attention. The buzz around the announcement has generated significant media coverage, suggesting that Fox’s gamble has already succeeded in reinvigorating interest in The Five.

A Strategic Gamble

Fox News is no stranger to bold moves. Over the years, the network has repeatedly reshuffled talent, experimented with formats, and leaned into controversial voices. Sometimes these gambles have paid off spectacularly—such as when Gutfeld transitioned from late-night experiment to ratings powerhouse. Other times, they have backfired, leading to public criticism or declining viewership.

With Smith and Gutfeld at the helm of The Five, Fox is making one of its boldest bets yet. If the pairing succeeds, it could solidify The Five’s dominance and set the tone for Fox’s programming strategy for years to come. If it fails, it could alienate loyal viewers and open the door for competitors.

Industry insiders are watching closely. “This isn’t just about one show,” one analyst noted. “It’s about how Fox positions itself in a rapidly changing media ecosystem. If this works, expect more unconventional pairings across the network.”

Sandra Smith’s Rising Influence

For Smith, this new role represents more than just a promotion. It cements her as one of Fox News’s most influential figures. No longer just an anchor or contributor, she is now a face of the network’s editorial direction, shaping the way millions of viewers interpret the day’s news.

Colleagues describe her as meticulous, disciplined, and deeply committed to her craft. “Sandra has always been a steady presence at Fox,” said one former colleague. “Her ability to connect with the audience and engage in thoughtful discussions will make her an outstanding co-host on The Five.”

Her influence is likely to grow as the political landscape heats up heading into the next election cycle. With debates over the economy, foreign policy, and cultural issues dominating headlines, Smith’s voice will carry significant weight.

Looking Ahead: The Future of The Five

As Smith and Gutfeld take their seats together, the format of The Five is expected to evolve. The traditional roundtable setup will likely remain, but the interplay between Smith’s analysis and Gutfeld’s humor could shift the show’s tone in new directions.

Fans can expect more lively debates, sharper contrasts, and a blend of serious discussion with comedic relief. This combination has the potential to broaden the show’s appeal, attracting not only conservatives but also moderates and younger viewers seeking a mix of substance and entertainment.

The challenge will be maintaining balance. Too much humor risks undermining credibility. Too much seriousness could dampen the show’s energy. Finding the sweet spot between the two will determine whether this gamble pays off.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Fox News

Sandra Smith’s promotion to co-host alongside Greg Gutfeld marks the beginning of a new era for The Five—and for Fox News as a whole. It is a move that reflects the network’s willingness to adapt, experiment, and take risks in the face of an evolving media landscape.

While reactions remain mixed, the buzz surrounding the announcement proves one thing: Fox News has succeeded in making The Five the story, not just a show. As viewers tune in to see how Smith and Gutfeld’s partnership unfolds, Fox will be watching closely, hoping that this new dynamic will keep it at the forefront of cable news.

Whether the pairing ultimately succeeds or falters, it is already clear that Sandra Smith’s influence within Fox News has grown—and that the future of The Five will look very different from its past.

For viewers, the message is simple: expect the unexpected.