Fox News Channel Dominates Cable News Viewership in Q1 2026

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Fox News Channel had a dominant first quarter of 2026, topping all of cable television for the 20th consecutive quarter and outperforming CBS in weekday primetime viewership. The network averaged 1.7 million total day viewers, compared to 691,000 for MS NOW and 577,000 for CNN. In primetime, Fox News averaged 2.6 million viewers, while MS NOW managed 1.1 million and CNN settled for only 797,000. Fox News also led in the key 25-54 demographic, averaging 172,000 total day viewers compared to 101,000 for CNN and 72,000 for MS NOW.

Why it matters

Fox News' continued viewership dominance solidifies its position as the leading cable news network, underscoring its ability to attract and retain a loyal audience even as the media landscape evolves. The network's strong performance across both total day and primetime, as well as its lead in key demographics, highlights its appeal to a wide range of viewers and its influence in shaping the national conversation.

The details

Fox News aired 14 of the top 15 cable news programs, with several shows like 'The Five,' 'Special Report with Bret Baier,' and 'Gutfeld!' leading their respective timeslots. The network also saw double-digit increases across every hour quarter-over-quarter. Fox News' primetime lineup averaged nearly 3 million viewers, outpacing CBS' 2.9 million. The network's morning show 'FOX & Friends' also crushed cable news competition and beat 'CBS Mornings' in 23 major markets.

• Fox News Channel topped all of cable for the 20th consecutive quarter during Q1 2026.

What’s next

Fox News Channel will look to continue its viewership dominance in the coming quarters, as it seeks to maintain its position as the leading cable news network and expand its influence among key demographics.