Is Fox News About to Revolutionize ‘The Five’? Johnny Joey Jones Takes the Spotlight and Teases Bigger Changes

For years, The Five has been known for its comfortable rhythm. Audiences knew what to expect: a set lineup of familiar faces, predictable arguments, and a structure that delivered consistent energy day in and day out. But that sense of comfort was shattered the moment Johnny Joey Jones slid into the seat traditionally occupied by Jessica Tarlov. The shift wasn’t subtle; it wasn’t gradual. It hit with the kind of force that made even long-time viewers sit up straighter.

This wasn’t just a small change in the lineup. It felt like a declaration. The atmosphere was different from the very first second. Jones didn’t hesitate; he leaned in with ease, a smile on his face, exuding confidence. There was no awkward settling-in period or tentative banter. He looked like he belonged there, not as a guest, not as a substitute, but as a permanent presence with weight.

Viewers who had been tuning in for years immediately noticed the difference. So did industry insiders. And so did Greg Gutfeld.

A Sudden and Bold Change

Jessica Tarlov’s absence didn’t go unnoticed. While her maternity leave had been publicly announced, the decision to replace her with Johnny Joey Jones was unexpected. Fox News had made temporary substitutions before, often rotating in familiar contributors, but this time, the choice felt weightier.

Johnny Joey Jones is no ordinary contributor. As a former Marine EOD technician who survived devastating injuries while serving overseas, Jones brings a credibility to the table that cannot be manufactured. When he talks about national security, sacrifice, or leadership, it doesn’t sound theoretical—it sounds personal. That alone changed the dynamic of the conversation on The Five.

But what truly stunned the audience wasn’t just who was sitting at the table; it was how seamlessly he fit into the group. The conversation felt sharper, the humor landed quicker, and even the disagreements carried a different tone. They were less performative and more grounded, a shift that was immediately felt by both viewers and the panel.

Within minutes, social media exploded with reactions—praise, confusion, excitement, and concern all poured in. Clips of the episode were shared widely, and commentary flooded the internet. By the first commercial break, it was clear that this episode wouldn’t soon be forgotten. And then, Greg Gutfeld leaned back in his chair.

Gutfeld’s Cryptic Statement

Midway through a heated segment, Gutfeld paused, smirked, and looked directly into the camera.

“If you think this is the only change coming,” he said casually, “just wait.”

The simple words carried explosive weight.

Dana Perino blinked, caught off guard. Harold Ford Jr. raised an eyebrow. Judge Jeanine paused in mid-motion. Johnny Joey Jones, however, didn’t flinch—he simply smiled.

That moment didn’t feel like a joke—it felt like a breadcrumb.

Gutfeld is known for his ability to signal upcoming shifts before they happen, and this line was no different. It hinted at a change in the works, but it wasn’t just a one-off event—it felt like a part of something bigger. It told viewers what many had already suspected: this wasn’t just a temporary substitution; it was a strategic move, and more changes might be on the horizon.

Behind the Move: Why Johnny Joey Jones?

According to sources close to the production, Jones had been considered for an expanded role for months. His guest appearances had consistently drawn strong engagement, and his interactions with Gutfeld and Judge Jeanine were often viral highlights. The chemistry between Jones and the panel was undeniable.

Producers saw three key advantages in elevating him. First, Jones brings a veteran’s perspective to the discussions, adding a layer of depth that reshapes debates on topics like defense, leadership, and national responsibility. Second, his natural rapport with the panel was a crucial factor. He doesn’t force moments; he reacts, listens, and engages when needed. Third, Jones doesn’t just attract attention from the political audience—he generates broader conversation, which is crucial in today’s media landscape, where engagement is king.

The decision to replace the show’s primary liberal counterweight with someone unapologetically conservative was not a neutral one. It signaled a willingness to shake up the formula rather than preserve the status quo.

What About Jessica Tarlov?

Speculation swirled immediately: was this a demotion? A quiet exit? A contractual dispute?

According to insiders, none of those rumors accurately captured the situation. Tarlov’s leave is legitimate, and she remains connected to the network. However, the timing of Jones’ appearance in her seat was far from coincidental. This wasn’t just about filling a gap—it was about testing a new dynamic.

Several staff members described the move as “an evolution, not a removal.” The idea was not to replace Tarlov but to rethink how the panel functioned, perhaps with rotating contributors or a different ideological balance.

Gutfeld, known for his influence over The Five, has gradually shaped the show into something faster, funnier, and more unpredictable. Bringing Jones in aligns perfectly with that vision.

Audience Reactions: The Show Feels Alive Again

Reactions to the episode flooded in from all sides. Supporters of Jones praised his directness, humor, and authenticity. They described the episode as electric, and many said the show felt energized in a way it hadn’t in years.

On the other side, fans of Tarlov expressed concern about the shift in ideological balance. They worried that removing her would tip the show too far to the right, potentially turning The Five into an echo chamber rather than a forum for debate.

For others, the shake-up was pure entertainment—a reminder that The Five still knew how to surprise its audience.

One thing was clear: people were paying attention. The show was being talked about, debated, and analyzed. And that kind of buzz is rare and valuable.

Is a Larger Transformation on the Horizon?

Gutfeld’s cryptic comment didn’t fade after the broadcast. Media analysts and viewers alike took it seriously. Could this be the start of a larger transformation at Fox News?

Gutfeld has already hinted at expanding his influence, with rumors circulating about his potential for a bigger role. With Jones now at the center of The Five, speculation about a broader strategy for the show intensified. Some believe Fox News is experimenting with a new mix: political commentary paired with strong personalities, credibility, and sharp humor. Others suspect that Jones is being groomed for larger responsibilities down the line.

A veteran like Jones, with strong audience appeal, could be a valuable asset for Fox News. Whether this leads to expanded hosting duties, prime-time opportunities, or a reimagined format for The Five remains to be seen.

Conclusion: The Opening Chapter

As the dust settles, one thing is certain: The Five has felt more alive than it has in years. The tension in the room, the sharper conversations, and the quicker humor all signal that something is changing behind the scenes. Johnny Joey Jones may be occupying the seat once held by Jessica Tarlov, but it’s clear that Greg Gutfeld is driving this shift.

If this move is any indication, Fox News is not settling for the safe and predictable. It’s embracing momentum, unpredictability, and personalities that spark conversation far beyond the studio.

And judging by the audience’s response, this is only the beginning. The opening chapter of a much larger story.