Fox News Continues Cable Domination as Industry Sheds Viewers From Last Month

Fox News extended its grip on cable news ratings in May as the broader industry posted double-digit declines from the prior month. The network averaged about 1.5 million daytime viewers and 140,000 in the key 25-54 demographic, with primetime at 2.4 million and about 200,000 in 25-54, figures that show declines of roughly 13% and 18% respectively. In contrast, CNN logged 633,000 primetime viewers and just over 100,000 in the key demo, declines of about 30% and 29%. MSNBC’s daypart performance slipped to 940,000 primetime viewers and 90,000 in the demo, down 25% and 32%. Even so, Fox News recorded notable wins as summer sports playoffs drew audiences, including weekday primetime leadership over ESPN during the NBA and NHL postseasons. The Five led cable programs with 3.6 million viewers, while Jesse Watters Primetime, Gutfeld!, Hannity, and Special Report posted 3.1 million, 2.9 million, 2.7 million, and 2.7 million, respectively. Fox & Friends drew about 1.3 million in key markets, and Special Report led CBS Evening News in several metros. CNN cited year-over-year demo growth in May, while MS NOW posted its sixth straight YoY gain, underscoring a mixed industry picture.