The Revolving Door at Fox News’ The Five: Behind Every Departure

Since its debut in 2011, The Five has become a signature program on Fox News—an unpredictable panel show that combines heated political debate with cultural commentary, comedy, and controversy. With its rotating cast of commentators representing the left, right, and everything in between, the show has served as a microcosm of the American political divide.

But behind the scenes, The Five has also been a hotspot for drama, high-profile exits, and even scandal. Over the years, several co-hosts have either walked away voluntarily or been shown the door under tense or troubling circumstances.

Here’s a closer look at the former stars of The Five—and the reasons they left.

Andrea Tantaros: From Rising Star to Whistleblower

Andrea Tantaros was one of the original co-hosts of The Five, known for her sharp conservative commentary and no-nonsense delivery. Her confrontational style made her a standout on the show, where she frequently clashed with liberal counterparts.

But her tenure at Fox News came to an abrupt and controversial end in 2016. Tantaros filed a lawsuit alleging sexual harassment and retaliation, claiming that the network operated like a “sex-fueled, Playboy Mansion-like cult.” She accused top executives, including then-CEO Roger Ailes, of inappropriate conduct and said she was pulled off the air after refusing their advances.

Tantaros’ case was a precursor to the #MeToo reckoning that would soon shake the media world. Since her departure, she has largely remained out of the public eye. Her lawsuit remains unresolved.

“This is about power and control,” she said. “And I refuse to be silenced by the people who abused their positions.”

Bob Beckel: The Liberal Firebrand with a Complicated Legacy

A veteran Democratic strategist, Bob Beckel provided the much-needed liberal voice on The Five. His gruff demeanor and willingness to go toe-to-toe with conservative co-hosts made him both a target and a favorite among viewers.

Beckel first left the show in 2015 for health reasons following back surgery. He briefly returned in 2017—only to be fired again, this time over accusations of making racially insensitive remarks to a colleague. Beckel denied the claims, but the incident marked a sour note in what had been a memorable run.

Despite the controversy, his impact on the show remains undeniable.

“I am a liberal, but I’m also a realist,” he once quipped during a particularly fiery segment.

Eric Bolling: Conservative Powerhouse Brought Down by Scandal

Eric Bolling brought Wall Street swagger to The Five. A former commodities trader turned Fox Business anchor, Bolling was known for his strong defense of free-market capitalism and conservative values.

But in 2017, his career at Fox came crashing down. Allegations surfaced that he had sent inappropriate messages to female colleagues. Bolling denied the allegations but was suspended and eventually parted ways with the network.

Afterward, he joined conservative network Newsmax and became a vocal advocate for addressing the opioid epidemic, following the tragic death of his son from an accidental overdose.

“I will continue to fight against these false smear attacks,” Bolling said at the time.

Juan Williams: The Voice of Balance Leaves Quietly

Juan Williams brought decades of journalistic experience to The Five. A former NPR and Washington Post contributor, Williams served as the show’s primary liberal voice, often providing thoughtful counterpoints to conservative arguments.

Williams’ departure in 2021 came during the COVID-19 pandemic. He cited a desire to continue working remotely and in a less intense capacity, but rumors swirled about tensions with other panelists, particularly over the show’s increasingly combative tone.

He continues to contribute as a senior political analyst for Fox News.

“We need more conversations that cross the aisle,” Williams emphasized during his final weeks on the show.

Geraldo Rivera: The Wild Card Walks Out

Few figures in journalism are as polarizing—or as enduring—as Geraldo Rivera. The mustachioed maverick brought decades of experience and unpredictability to The Five, where his centrist takes often clashed with hardline conservative views.

But Rivera’s tenure ended in 2023 amid what he described as “creative differences.” Tensions with co-host Greg Gutfeld reportedly made the workplace atmosphere untenable.

“I was basically fired from The Five,” Rivera told The New York Times, pulling no punches.

He remains with Fox News in a correspondent role, but his exit marked the end of one of the show’s most colorful eras.

The Pattern Behind the Departures

What’s clear is that The Five has been more than just a news show—it’s a pressure cooker of politics, personalities, and, sometimes, personal drama. While some departures were amicable, others exposed deeper issues at the network, from alleged harassment to ideological rifts.

And yet, the show goes on—reshuffling its deck of panelists, rebranding with new voices, and continuing to dominate in the ratings.

But as viewers, it’s worth remembering: behind every lively debate and primetime laugh, there’s often a more complicated story playing out just off-screen.