Fox News Crushes Cable Ratings for Seventh Year, Leaves CNN and MSNBC in the Dust

In a media landscape transformed by streaming services and shifting viewer habits, one network has managed to not only weather the storm—but dominate it. FOX News has claimed the top spot in cable news for the seventh consecutive year, outpacing both CNN and MSNBC by wide margins and proving that its grip on America’s political conversation remains ironclad.

According to year-end Nielsen data, FOX News delivered the third-highest total viewership in cable news history during 2022, a remarkable feat that underscores its enduring influence. The network’s commanding performance in both primetime and total day ratings has not only solidified its status as the nation’s most-watched cable news channel—it has also widened the gap between itself and its closest competitors.

Seven Years of Ratings Dominance

The numbers leave little room for debate. In primetime and total day averages, FOX News continues to lead all cable news outlets by millions of viewers. Despite the explosion of digital-first platforms and on-demand media, FOX News has remained a dominant force, drawing an audience that spans generations, political affiliations, and geographies.

Shows like The Five, Tucker Carlson Tonight, and Hannity consistently rank among the top cable programs across all categories. These programs deliver a potent mix of hard news, cultural commentary, and personality-driven opinion—an approach that has struck a chord with viewers and kept them tuning in night after night.

Why FOX News Keeps Winning

Much of FOX News’ success can be attributed to its keen understanding of its audience. The network’s programming is finely tuned to reflect the concerns, curiosities, and convictions of its core viewership. With a focus on unfiltered commentary, live reporting, and deep political analysis, FOX News offers a style of coverage that sets it apart from its rivals.

Equally important is the network’s investment in star power. High-profile anchors like Sean Hannity, Laura Ingraham, and Greg Gutfeld bring not only strong journalistic credentials but also large and loyal followings. Their ability to drive conversation, shape political narratives, and deliver consistently high ratings has been pivotal to FOX’s ongoing success.

The rise of Gutfeld!, in particular, has proven that FOX News can thrive even in formats typically dominated by traditional networks. As a late-night show competing with the likes of Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel, Gutfeld! has managed to redefine political humor and attract viewers who feel underserved by mainstream comedy.

CNN and MSNBC Struggle to Keep Pace

While FOX News celebrates a banner year, the story has been less favorable for CNN and MSNBC. Both networks have seen turbulent shifts in programming, leadership, and strategic direction—challenges that have translated into declining or stagnant viewership.

CNN, once the pioneer of 24-hour news, has wrestled with a rebranding effort that hasn’t resonated. Attempts to broaden its appeal while maintaining journalistic rigor have left the network in a state of flux. A reshuffling of primetime talent and format changes have not stemmed the tide of falling ratings, and internal leadership changes have only added to the instability.

MSNBC, for its part, has leaned heavily into progressive commentary, aiming to secure its share of the liberal-leaning audience. Though it has maintained a strong base, it hasn’t been enough to challenge FOX News’ dominance. The network’s political focus, while passionate, has not translated into broader appeal—particularly during off-cycle election periods when viewer interest tends to dip.

A Pivotal Year Ahead

As FOX News looks toward 2024, its trajectory shows no signs of slowing. The upcoming presidential election will likely bring a surge in political interest, and FOX News is already positioned as the go-to destination for real-time analysis, campaign trail reporting, and headline-breaking exclusives.

The network’s digital strategy is also evolving. With increasing emphasis on streaming platforms and mobile access, FOX News is preparing for the future while maintaining its stronghold on cable. Its FOX Nation streaming service, which offers exclusive documentaries, extended interviews, and lifestyle content, continues to grow, further solidifying the brand’s reach beyond traditional TV.

What FOX News’ Success Means for the Industry

FOX News’ dominance isn’t just a ratings win—it’s a reflection of a broader media realignment. As audiences become more fragmented, FOX has managed to hold its core while expanding its influence, a balance that few other outlets have achieved.

In a time of deep political polarization and media distrust, FOX News has emerged as a cultural institution—one that is both revered and reviled, but impossible to ignore. Its ability to command attention, shape dialogue, and set the agenda makes it not just a ratings juggernaut, but a central force in American life.

As the network enters its eighth year at the top, the question is no longer whether FOX News can hold its lead—it’s how far it can widen it. With momentum on its side, a loyal viewership at its back, and a pivotal election season ahead, FOX News appears well-positioned to continue its reign as the undisputed heavyweight champion of cable news.