For fans of Fox News’ popular roundtable show, The Five, a persistent question has been circulating: Is Jesse Watters, one of the show’s most prominent and often controversial co-hosts, planning an exit?
This question frequently pops up across social media and online forums, leading to speculation whenever there’s a shift in his on-air presence or a new development in his career.
Let’s dig into what’s fact and what’s just chatter surrounding Jesse Watters’ future on The Five.
Watters’ Rise: From Correspondent to Powerhouse Co-Host
Jesse Watters’ journey at Fox News has been a significant one. Starting as a production assistant, he quickly moved up the ranks, gaining recognition for his “man-on-the-street” segments on The O’Reilly Factor.
Watter’s quick wit, direct questioning style, and often provocative takes made him a memorable personality.
His consistent presence on The Five began in 2017, where he quickly became a key voice on the show. His interactions with co-hosts, often playing the role of the conservative firebrand, significantly contributed to the show’s dynamic and its immense popularity.
The Five isn’t just a discussion; it’s a daily debate, and Watters’ contributions are central to that energy.
The Launch of Jesse Watters Primetime: A Game Changer
The biggest development impacting speculation about Watters’ role on The Five came in January 2022 with the launch of his own solo show, Jesse Watters Primetime. Taking over the 7 PM/ET slot, this move solidified his standing as a major individual talent at the network.
Having a primetime show is a significant career advancement for any cable news personality. It demands substantial time and focus, leading many to wonder how he could possibly juggle a daily hour-long solo program with his duties on The Five. Logistically, it’s a challenge.
So, Is He Out? The Reality of His Schedule
Despite the demands of Jesse Watters’ Primetime, the answer, as of now, is a clear no; Jesse Watters is not leaving The Five. He continues to be a regular, albeit perhaps not daily, presence on the panel.
What viewers have observed is a natural adjustment in his schedule. While he used to appear almost every day, his appearances on The Five are now more strategic.
He might be on air for several days in a row, then take a day or two off, or rotate with other hosts. This is a common practice for hosts who have multiple roles or who are given more flexibility due to their prominence.
It’s important to remember that The Five thrives on a rotating cast of co-hosts.
While certain individuals are considered “main” hosts, the show’s format allows for flexibility and diverse perspectives. This ensures that even when a host like Watters has other commitments, the show’s core dynamic remains intact.
Why the Persist Rumours?
Constant speculation about Watters’ departure stems from a few factors:
Career Trajectory: When a personality gets their own primetime show, it’s often a precursor to them focusing solely on that venture. Fans naturally assume this will be the case for Watters.
Reduced Frequency: While he’s still a main host, his slightly less frequent appearances compared to his pre-Primetime days can fuel the “he’s leaving” narrative.
High Profile: Watters is a polarising figure. Both his supporters and detractors closely monitor his movements, and any perceived change can quickly become a topic of discussion.
The Nature of Cable News: The industry is dynamic. Talent moves, shows change, and contracts are renegotiated. This inherent fluidity often sparks rumours about even the most stable personalities.
What Does Fox News Say?
Fox News rarely comments on the specific contract details or future plans of individual hosts, unless there is a major announcement to be made. However, their continued promotion of Watters on both The Five and Primetime speaks volumes.
He is a valuable asset to the network, contributing significantly to two of their most-watched programs. It’s in their best interest to keep him across both shows as long as the arrangement is mutually beneficial.
The Future: Dual Roles for the Foreseeable Future
For the foreseeable future, it appears Jesse Watters will continue his dual role on Fox News. His ability to anchor Jesse Watters Primetime while still contributing to the lively discussions on The Five demonstrates his dedication and the network’s desire to leverage his unique appeal across different time slots.
So, if you’re a fan worried about seeing less of Jesse Watters on The Five, rest assured. While his schedule might have adjusted, he remains a core part of the panel.
The show’s enduring success relies on its unique blend of personalities, and Watters is undeniably a crucial ingredient in that winning formula.