Fact Check: Is Dana Perino Really Leaving Fox News’ ‘The Five’ Due to ‘Tensions’ with Sean Hannity?

Recent online advertisements have sparked controversy by claiming that Dana Perino, a prominent host on Fox News’ highly-rated show “The Five,” is departing the program due to escalating tensions with fellow Fox personality Sean Hannity.

The dramatic nature of these claims has caused widespread confusion among viewers, prompting a closer investigation into their validity.

Origins of the Rumor

The online ads, circulating heavily on social media platforms such as Facebook, emerged in early May 2024. With attention-grabbing headlines reading “Dana Perino’s Shocking Exit from Fox News,” these advertisements swiftly attracted public interest and engagement.

Users who clicked through were often led to websites cleverly designed to mimic genuine news outlets, increasing the perceived legitimacy of these claims.

Allegations and False Narratives

According to these deceptive ads, Perino’s alleged departure was linked to her purported involvement in promoting a product called “Fortin CBD Gummies.”

These narratives falsely suggested that Perino had used her Fox News platform to endorse the CBD product as a revolutionary dementia cure. The advertisements went further, claiming that Sean Hannity expressed anger over these promotions, supposedly accusing Perino of jeopardizing network sponsorship deals, ultimately escalating to a threatened lawsuit.

Upon thorough investigation, these claims were found to be completely baseless. Dana Perino has never publicly endorsed any CBD products, nor has she been involved in any similar business ventures. Moreover, there has been no credible evidence or official statements from either Perino, Hannity, or Fox News supporting the existence of any tensions or legal threats.

Expert Fact-Checking and Clarifications

Independent fact-checking agencies, including the respected platform Snopes, have thoroughly investigated and explicitly debunked these claims. Snopes concluded that the misleading advertisements were part of a broader online scam targeting social media users, aiming primarily to sell questionable CBD products under false pretenses.

The fact-checking organization clearly stated that there is no truth to the claim of Perino leaving “The Five” or any ongoing conflict with Sean Hannity.

Fox News’ Response

Fox News has not issued any formal statement specifically addressing these recent advertisements, likely deeming them too obviously fraudulent to warrant official comment.

As of now, Dana Perino continues to host “The Five” alongside co-hosts Greg Gutfeld, Jesse Watters, Jeanine Pirro, and Jessica Tarlov, demonstrating no indication of departure or internal disputes.

Broader Impact of Online Misinformation

This situation highlights the broader challenge of misinformation and deceptive advertising online. Social media’s widespread accessibility provides fertile ground for the rapid dissemination of fake news, particularly when it involves prominent media figures.

In an environment where sensational headlines drive user engagement, it becomes critical for audiences to maintain skepticism and verify such dramatic claims through reputable news and fact-checking organizations.

Recommendations for Media Consumers

Experts advise caution when encountering online advertisements or viral social media posts claiming dramatic revelations about public figures.

Verifying information through trusted sources, such as official statements from news organizations or verified social media accounts, can significantly reduce the risk of falling prey to misinformation. Additionally, relying on established fact-checking services like Snopes, PolitiFact, and FactCheck.org is encouraged.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, Dana Perino is not leaving Fox News’ “The Five,” and there is no credible evidence of any tensions or legal disputes involving Sean Hannity.

The claims stem from a deceptive online advertisement campaign designed to exploit her public image for commercial gain. Media consumers are urged to remain vigilant and skeptical of similar unverified claims circulating online.