Fox News has once again reached a milestone in television ratings history, securing the number one spot not only among cable news outlets but across all major broadcast networks during the summer primetime hours. According to Nielsen data covering the period from June 20 through September 1, the network outpaced ABC, NBC, and CBS in the highly competitive 8–11 PM slot, averaging 2.43 million viewers per night. For context, ABC drew 2.38 million viewers during the same time, NBC followed with 2.21 million, and CBS finished with 2.03 million. This marks only the second time Fox News has accomplished such a feat, the first being in the summer of 2020, demonstrating the network’s ability to attract audiences beyond its traditional cable news base.

The ratings dominance extended far beyond broadcast competition. When compared with its closest cable rivals, Fox News was in an entirely different league. MSNBC averaged 783,000 viewers per night in primetime, while CNN trailed with 444,000. Combined, the two networks were still less than half of Fox News’ nightly average. Even within the advertiser-coveted 25–54 demographic, where CNN has historically performed somewhat better, Fox held a commanding lead. Fox averaged 237,000 viewers in this age range during primetime, while CNN managed 78,000 and MSNBC trailed with 72,000. This decisive advantage underscores Fox’s ability to capture both broad audience numbers and the key demographic critical for ad revenue.

Much of Fox News’ success in primetime can be credited to its star lineup of opinion shows, which consistently deliver large and loyal audiences. In August, Jesse Watters Primetime led the charge, pulling in an average of 3.06 million viewers each night. Following closely behind was Gutfeld!, the late-night program that has become a surprise juggernaut, averaging 2.85 million. At 9 PM, Hannity maintained a strong hold on its timeslot with 2.61 million viewers. These programs not only dominate within cable news but also surpass many scripted and unscripted offerings on traditional broadcast television, a clear sign of how the media landscape has shifted in recent years.

Interestingly, Fox News’ single biggest draw in August did not come from primetime at all. The Five, the network’s 5 PM roundtable show, averaged 3.48 million daily viewers, outpacing every other cable news program and even eclipsing many primetime juggernauts. This success highlights the strength of Fox News’ brand across multiple hours of programming, proving that its appeal is not confined to a single timeslot or lineup.

The network has also seen notable success with its straight news programming, not just its opinion shows. Special Report with Bret Baier, airing at 6 PM, delivered 2.55 million total viewers per night in August, including 249,000 from the 25–54 demo. The program’s ability to compete directly with network evening newscasts is significant. In fact, Special Report has managed to beat out ABC, NBC, and CBS in certain major markets, a development that underscores how Fox is increasingly blurring the traditional line between cable news and broadcast news dominance.

Fox’s consistent ratings lead can be attributed to several factors. The network’s programming lineup has cultivated a loyal audience base, and its primetime shows in particular have developed a strong brand identity. Personalities like Jesse Watters, Greg Gutfeld, and Sean Hannity command dedicated followings, giving the network both staying power and the ability to withstand broader industry shifts. Additionally, the blend of opinion-driven analysis with hard news coverage allows Fox News to appeal to viewers seeking both political commentary and breaking news updates.

The summer 2025 ratings results highlight a broader trend in media consumption. As streaming services and digital platforms continue to disrupt traditional television, Fox News’ ability to lead not only its cable competitors but also broadcast networks shows the enduring power of live news and commentary programming. By topping broadcast titans like ABC and NBC in primetime, Fox demonstrates that cable outlets, when fueled by strong brand loyalty and consistent programming, can outperform traditional broadcast institutions.

Ultimately, Fox News’ second-ever achievement of leading all networks in summer primetime reflects not just a strong season but a structural shift in audience habits. Whether driven by interest in political commentary, the charisma of its hosts, or the network’s ability to generate must-watch content, Fox News has secured a position of influence that extends well beyond cable news. With both opinion and news shows performing at high levels, the network is positioned to remain a ratings powerhouse heading into the fall and beyond.