Created by Rupert Murdoch
Fox News, created by Rupert Murdoch, was launched on October 7, 1996. Murdoch appointed Roger Ailes as its founding CEO. The channel initially targeting an audience of 17 million cable subscribers. Before starting Fox News, Murdoch gained experience in the 24-hour news sector with the launch of Sky News in the UK in 1989. In this slideshow, we take a closer look at Fox News’ founding and rise through the 1990s.
Announced plans
Murdoch announced plans for a 24-hour news channel on January 31, 1996, citing a growing appetite for news that explains its impact on viewers. Roger Ailes joined Murdoch after leaving America’s Talking (now MSNBC) in February 1996, and he oversaw extensive preparation for the launch.
News headlines
At launch, Fox News was only viewable in 10 million households and lacked coverage in major markets like New York City and Los Angeles. The initial programming format included 20-minute single-topic shows supplemented by news headlines.
Initial anchors
Initial anchors included Neil Cavuto and Tony Snow, but the network quickly shifted towards opinion programming as its main draw. Popular early programs included “The O’Reilly Report,” hosted by Bill O’Reilly, and “Hannity and Colmes,” featuring Sean Hannity and Alan Colmes.
Fair and balanced
Fox News adopted the slogan “fair and balanced” and later “We Report, You Decide” in 2008. “Fox & Friends,” a morning news segment, debuted in 1998 and remains a significant part of Fox News’ schedule.
Presidential election
During the 2000 presidential election, Fox News recorded a 440% increase in viewership, the highest gain among cable news networks at that time.
Megyn Kelly
Megyn Kelly joined in 2004 and subsequently hosted “The Kelly File.” Glenn Beck joined in 2009 with his own talk show.
Faced criticism
The channel faced criticism for its “fair and balanced” motto as it prominently featured Republican figures like Sarah Palin and Newt Gingrich.
Its principles
Fox News is accused of supporting the Tea Party movement, with hosts like Glenn Beck resonating with its principles.
Split into two companies
In 2013, News Corporation split into two companies, with Fox News integrated into the newly formed 20th Century Fox.
Align closely
The network’s programming appeared to align closely with President Donald Trump’s campaign and presidency, featuring shows from Tucker Carlson and Laura Ingraham.
Multiple lawsuits
Fox News dealt with multiple lawsuits, including Gretchen Carlson’s sexual harassment claim against Roger Ailes, leading to Ailes’ resignation.
2020 presidential election
In the largest known media settlement for defamation in U.S. history, Fox News agreed to pay Dominion $787.5 million and acknowledged the court’s earlier ruling that Fox had broadcast false statements about Dominion following the 2020 presidential election.
Remained in use
Following controversies, Fox News dropped its “Fair and Balanced” slogan, adopting “Most Watched, Most Trusted,” although “We Report, You Decide” remained in use.
More than 22 years
To date, Fox News Channel (FNC) is the most-watched news channel in the U.S. with nearly 50% of the cable news audience. FNC has been the top-rated network in basic cable for eight years and the most-watched news channel for more than 22 years.