Decline in CNN Ratings Persists Through Another Challenging July
In the competitive world of cable news, Fox News continues to hold a commanding lead as of mid-2025. The network consistently outperforms its rivals, MSNBC and CNN, in both total viewership and the key Adults 25-54 demographic.
During July 2025, Fox News averaged about 2.41 million total viewers and 257,000 in the 25-54 demo during primetime, though these numbers represent a decline of around 30% and 48%, respectively, compared to the previous year. In contrast, MSNBC and CNN posted significantly lower ratings. MSNBC averaged around 865,000 total viewers and 81,000 in the demo during primetime, while CNN lagged behind with approximately 497,000 total viewers and 92,000 in the demo. These numbers mark CNN's lowest-rated July ever in the key category.
Across total day viewing, Fox News drew about 1.53 million total viewers and 184,000 in the demo, with MSNBC and CNN trailing behind with fewer viewers respectively (530,000/52,000 and 370,000/62,000). Fox News' dominance is so significant that it even surpasses some broadcast networks in primetime viewers.
While Fox News continues to thrive, its competitors are facing challenges. CNN, for instance, has not had a clear star since its ratings peaked during the Russia Hoax. In July 2023, no CNN program ranked among the top 15 highest-rated shows in cable news. Meanwhile, re-airs on Nickelodeon were more popular than CNN's primetime lineup.
Anderson Cooper and Jake Tapper are some of the most recognizable names on CNN, but they have struggled to stay relevant. On the other hand, Fox News has several needle movers, including Jesse Watters, Sean Hannity, Will Cain, and Bret Baier.
MSNBC fared slightly better, with The Rachel Maddow Show ranking as the 8th highest-rated show in cable news for July 2023. However, MSNBC's total viewership declined by 27% in July 2023 compared to the same month in 2024.
A potential shift in strategy for CNN was announced by Warner Bros. Discovery, who plan to separate CNN, TBS, and TNT from their streaming service and studios, indicating a potential move towards spending less on talent. Meanwhile, Scott Jennings has become CNN's most viral personality, but he is still just a contributor.
As the landscape of cable news continues to evolve, Fox News remains the dominant player, while CNN and MSNBC grapple with declining audiences and a search for new stars to drive ratings.
References: [1] CNN Business [2] The Hollywood Reporter [3] Variety [4] Adweek
During the July 2025 social media analyses, Fox News' success was evident, with many posts discussing their primetime viewership and dominance in the cable news sector. In contrast, some posts critically evaluated CNN's ongoing struggle to regain its audience numbers and find new entertainment figures to boost ratings.
