Fox News anchor Sean Hannity has become the longest-running prime-time cable news host, ousting previous record-holder and cable news legend Larry King.
The Daily Wire reports:
Hannity, who has been with Fox News since its 1996 launch, marked 25 years, six months, and 15 days of hosting in prime time with his Thursday broadcast. The previous record was held by King, whose late-night talk show aired from June 3, 1985, to December 16, 2010.
Fox News issued a statement celebrating the milestone on Thursday, saying in part, “FOX News Channel’s (FNC) Sean Hannity has notched yet another industry milestone, becoming the longest-running primetime cable news host in television history. Today marks 25 consecutive years, six months, and 15 days at the helm of a primetime cable news program, breaking the previous longstanding record* held by the late talk show host Larry King. As cable news’ most enduring personality, Hannity has been a staple of FNC’s primetime lineup since the launch of the network in 1996, where his candid style and passionate commentary have made him one of the most prominent and influential voices in the country.”
“Most recently, Hannity ended 2021 as the top-rated program airing at 9 PM/ET, besting the competition on CNN and MSNBC by double digits in both categories. Currently averaging more than 3.1 million viewers each night, the program routinely ranks in the top five programs in cable news,” the statement from Fox News added.
“Sean’s authenticity and insightful commentary have created one of the most enduring connections with our audience and it’s been an honor to watch him over the years. A FOX News original, he has helped innovate the industry, and we are incredibly proud of his extraordinary success,” Fox News Media CEO Suzanne Scott said of Hannity’s longevity and success.
Hannity released a short statement thanking his loyal viewers and the network for the accomplishment/
“I am extremely grateful to FOX News Media and to our loyal, dedicated viewers whom I am proud to serve every night,” Hannity said.
