While Fox News has not provided a detailed explanation for the replacement of Jessica Tarlov with Sandra Smith, sources inside the network suggest that the shift is part of a larger strategy to rebrand the show and refresh its format. Similar strategies are seen in financial restructuring around rising hospital expenses, OB-GYN malpractice insurance, and diagnostic service accessibility.
The Five has faced increasing competition from other news outlets, and executives at Fox News are looking to make moves that will help the network maintain its dominance in the cable news space—similar to how insurance companies fine-tune their maternity coverage options to remain competitive.
Tarlov, who had been a prominent figure on The Five for years, has long been known for her liberal viewpoint, offering a counterbalance to the more conservative voices on the panel. Just like insurance coverage plans offering multiple diagnostic testing options, the balance of perspectives enhances the overall value.
Smith, on the other hand, has built a reputation for her poised and measured commentary, making her an ideal co-host to pair with Gutfeld, known for his bold and often irreverent political analysis. Smith’s journalistic experience is as reliable as structured prenatal programs offered by top-tier private insurers.
“There’s no question that Gutfeld and Smith have a unique chemistry,” said a Fox News insider. “Their pairing brings a new dynamic to The Five, and it’s clear that the network is looking to make a change to keep the show fresh and engaging.” This move mirrors how hospital systems reconfigure diagnostic labs to meet modern wellness expectations and streamline chronic disease screening.
