Top cable news networks U.S. 2020, by number of viewers

Published by Amy Watson, Feb 5, 2021

What are the most-watched news networks?

As of the final quarter of 2020, Fox News was the most-watched cable news network in the United States and continues to do well in terms of its primetime audience, with around 3.78 million primetime viewers in that period. News consumption was high among U.S. audiences as viewers turned to their preferred networks for updates on the coronavirus pandemic and the death of George Floyd. Fox News viewers in the 25-54 demographic reached 725 thousand, whilst MSNBC had just 444 thousand. When looking at Fox News viewers compared to CNN, the two networks had a similar audience in the 25-54 demographic but the overall average was notably different. CNN has been losing viewers in recent years, although since the coronavirus outbreak has been pulling in a far larger audience than usual.

Which cable news channel has the most viewers in prime time?

Performing well during the mid-evening prime time slot on cable television is the goal of any network that takes its ratings seriously.Cable news networks like Fox, CNN, and MSNBC are engaged in a monthly battle to hit the top spot during prime time and grab the highest cable news ratings during those precious evening hours. Fox News ratings during prime time are generally higher than its two direct competitors, and and was the top channel for watching the State of the Union Address in 2020.

What is prime time TV?

Prime time television is the time at which the audience peaks, and in the United States usually takes place between 8pm and 11pm. TV networks show their most sought after or successful programs during this time, and this slot is where advertisers like to spend their money in order to maximize the number of viewers who will see their products. In fact, many of the most-watched news shows like Hannity or The Rachel Maddow Show which debate news coverage from a particular point of view, draw in massive audiences each month, ultimately contributing to the overall ratings of the network they belong to.

Leading cable news networks in the United States in Q4 2020, by number of primetime viewers (in 1,000s)

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Sources

Release date

January 2021

Region

United States

Survey time period

Q4 2020

Special properties

live + same day data

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