Inside the Drama: The Rivalries and Tensions Behind the Scenes at Fox News

Fox News has long been known for its bold voices, confrontational debates, and headline-making personalities. But behind the fiery segments and passionate political discussions lies a newsroom full of tension, rivalries, and, at times, open conflict. From subtle on-air jabs to explosive allegations of harassment, some of the network’s biggest names have found themselves embroiled in controversy—not just with guests or political figures, but with their own colleagues.

Here’s a closer look at some of the most notable feuds and controversies to emerge from within the Fox News ranks.

Greg Gutfeld vs. Brian Kilmeade: A Clash of Styles

Two of Fox’s most recognizable faces, Greg Gutfeld and Brian Kilmeade, have developed a complicated dynamic characterized by clashing styles and on-air tension. Gutfeld, host of Gutfeld! and co-host of The Five, is known for his biting sarcasm and offbeat humor. Kilmeade, a co-host of Fox & Friends, represents a more traditional, straight-laced approach to political commentary.

The tension between the two was most visibly on display during a debate about historical figure Sam Houston, where Gutfeld’s constant quips clearly irritated Kilmeade. “Can you let me finish for once?” Kilmeade snapped, to which Gutfeld retorted, “I’m just adding some spice to your bland delivery.”

Though such moments are often played off as friendly banter, insiders suggest that their differences in tone and delivery reflect a deeper personality clash. Gutfeld has even joked on-air that he and Kilmeade would launch a late-night show called Ones and Zeros, with himself as the “ones” and Kilmeade as the “zeros.”

Britt McHenry vs. Fox News: Harassment Allegations and Legal Fallout

In one of the network’s most serious internal controversies, former Fox News commentator Britt McHenry filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against her co-host George Murdoch, known on-air as “Tyrus.” McHenry accused Murdoch of sending lewd messages and making repeated unwelcome advances. “I tried to go through the proper channels, but my concerns were dismissed,” she said.

The network conducted an internal investigation and stood by Murdoch, stating they found no evidence of wrongdoing. McHenry, however, claimed she was sidelined professionally after coming forward. “I felt I was punished for speaking out,” she told reporters. Her case drew attention to broader concerns about workplace culture at Fox, particularly for women in on-air roles.

Greta Van Susteren vs. Tucker Carlson: A Quiet Exit Amid Loud Disagreements

Veteran journalist Greta Van Susteren left Fox News in 2016 after 14 years, citing it as an “unexpected but necessary” move. Behind the scenes, her departure followed ongoing clashes with rising star Tucker Carlson. Known for her calm and analytical approach, Van Susteren reportedly became frustrated with Carlson’s more aggressive style and internal influence.

“I’ve always believed in respectful dialogue,” she said in a statement, “but there’s a line between spirited debate and personal attacks.” While she never named Carlson directly, insiders confirmed that their disagreements during editorial meetings had become increasingly heated.

Carlson, who would go on to host Tucker Carlson Tonight, frequently made veiled on-air comments aimed at colleagues with more reserved viewpoints, further fueling speculation of behind-the-scenes discord.

Geraldo Rivera vs. The Five: A Culture of Conflict

Few Fox personalities have been as openly critical of the network’s internal dynamics as Geraldo Rivera. A longtime contributor and co-host of The Five, Rivera clashed frequently with colleagues like Greg Gutfeld and Jesse Watters. His debates with Gutfeld, in particular, often escalated into personal attacks. During one heated exchange, Rivera called Gutfeld “a punk” on live television.

“I don’t mind a good debate,” Rivera later said in an interview, “but there were times when it crossed into hostility. It became personal.” He described the environment at Fox as “toxic” and ultimately left the network in 2023.

Rivera also revealed that former colleague Megyn Kelly had once blacklisted him from her show. “It wasn’t just one person,” Rivera remarked. “It was the dynamic—the culture of constant conflict.”

Entertainment or Dysfunction?

While these feuds have provided plenty of on-screen drama, critics say they reflect deeper issues within the network’s workplace culture. Some argue that Fox News management has tolerated—or even encouraged—conflict among its stars in the name of ratings. The result is a combustible mix of egos, ideologies, and rivalries that occasionally spills into public view.

Whether viewers see these tensions as genuine animosity or just part of the performance, there’s no denying that the network’s behind-the-scenes drama often rivals what’s playing out on the screen.

Which of these feuds surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments.