Fox News Names Replacement For Shepard Smith's Time Slot

Fox News has finally announced its choice to take over Shepard Smith’s time slot after parting with the anchor in October. The conservative news network on Monday announced that “America’s Newsroom” personality Bill Hemmer will be taking the reins for the channel’s 3:00 p.m. slot with a new program called, “Bill Hemmer Reports.”

“Bill is an incredible newsman and his ability to cut to the heart of the story while humanizing major events has made him a standout talent in news,” network president ad executive editor Jay Wallace said in a statement. “As we start gearing up for the 2020 election, we are thrilled to have him lead our news division through what will sure to be an eventful year.”

Hemmer had previously co-hosted the 9:00 a.m. program “America’s Newsroom” alongside Sandra Smith. An alternating roster of reporters will host with Sandra Smith until a permanent replacement for Hemmer is decided upon.

“As a journalist, l am extremely grateful for this opportunity,” Hemmer said. “2020 will undoubtedly be a year of great significance. Leading our breaking news division with a signature hour has enormous value to me, personally, and to our audience. We’ve got a fantastic team here, and I am excited to get to work.”

Oft considered a more moderate member of the Fox News team, Smith announced his surprise departure from the network on Oct. 11.

Smith's voluntary left that outlet after drawing the ire of President Donald Trump, who frequently appears on the morning program "Fox & Friends." Smith had frequently been critical of Trump and his decisions, in sharp contrast to his fellow Fox News hosts.

“The opportunities afforded this guy from small-town Mississippi have been many,” Smith said during the announcement in October. “It’s been an honor and a privilege to report the news each day to our loyal audience in context and with perspective, without fear or favor.”