Fox News Channel Announces Prime-Time Lineup: Van Susteren Moves To 7, Hannity Moves To 10, Megyn Kelly Is At 9

Amid much speculation, Fox News Channel officially announced its new prime-time lineup set to debut on Oct. 7.

According to the press release, Greta Van Susteren will kick things off at 7 p.m. EST with “On the Record with Greta Van Susteren.” After that, Bill O’Reilly will keep the ball rolling for “The O’Reilly Factor” at 8 p.m. EST. Megyn Kelly will debut “The Kelly File” at 9 p.m. EST, and Sean Hannity will take it home at 10 p.m. EST with his show “Hannity.” As previously reported, Shepard Smith will serve as the chief news anchor and managing editor of a breaking news division, allowing him to deliver breaking news during programming throughout the night from a studio called the “Fox News Deck.”

“As the network continues to dominate with the top 13 programs in cable news, FOX News already redefined prime-time viewing to extend well beyond the antiquated 8-11 p.m. format,” Fox News Chairman and CEO Roger Ailes said. “We’ve developed a deep bench of engaging and thought-provoking personalities that have grown with FOX News as it has evolved into the most influential and successful cable network in television. These changes will enable the network to continue setting the industry standard for years to come.”

It’s the first time Fox has changed its prime-time lineup in more than a decade. Van Susteren will be taking her show from 10 p.m. to 7 p.m., which used to be the hour when Shepard Smith hosted his show. Bill O’Reilly remains in place at 8 p.m. Sean Hannity will move from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. to make room for Megyn Kelly, who is a rising star at the network.

"After 11 ½ years number one at 10 p.m. and driving home near midnight, I am 'to the moon thrilled’ at a new challenge (and a new drive! Half the year I won't even need headlights!),” Van Susteren said.

“In 2003, I was an unhappy lawyer, and made a decision to change my life,” Kelly said. “Ten years later, I've been able to do that thanks in large part to Roger Ailes, a boss who always gives me the same directive: ‘Be yourself and have fun.’ What a great job. I am very grateful.”

“I am very happy to be moving to 10 p.m.,” Hannity said. “The ability to be live or on tape greatly increases the flexibility of the show and offers me, after 17 years, the opportunity to be home at night with my family.”