Jessica Tarlov stunned viewers with a rare admission about the state of American cable news. The Fox News host, known for her liberal voice on the network’s popular show “The Five,” issued a sweeping apology that quickly triggered backlash and reignited debate over media accountability.

During a recent appearance on the Prof G podcast, Tarlov said she was sorry “to the entire world” for the content exported by cable news. As reported by Daily Mail, her confession came during a discussion with University of Virginia’s Larry Sabato and podcast co-host Scott Galloway, leading to sharp reactions from supporters and critics.

Tarlov’s remarks, made in the context of a broader conversation about the impact of TV news on political discourse, quickly spread online. Many conservatives and Fox News viewers expressed outrage, while others saw her comments as a rare moment of candor about the media landscape.

Tarlov’s apology sparks debate

Tarlov’s apology came when Larry Sabato was asked about the issue that most frustrates him. Sabato responded by lamenting the influence of cable news on public anger, saying he now watches more TV news than ever and believes it amplifies what’s popular on social media. Tarlov agreed, telling the panel, “As someone who’s on cable news, I apologize to the entire world for what we export.”

Her statement was met with laughter from Sabato, who then criticized the role of social media in shaping political debates. Tarlov did not clarify which specific aspects of cable news she found troubling, leaving room for interpretation. Still, her words were enough to ignite a heated response across social media platforms, especially among conservative audiences.

The timing of Tarlov’s apology coincided with renewed criticism of her performance on “The Five.” Some viewers demanded Fox News fire her, while others defended her right to express regret over the network’s output. The clash illustrated the deep divisions over how media figures should address perceived shortcomings in their own industry.

Controversy over Trump comments

The uproar over Tarlov’s apology was amplified by fresh controversy from a recent episode of “The Five.” On Friday, the panel discussed rumors that the Biden White House had concealed a cancer diagnosis. Tarlov shifted the conversation to President Donald Trump’s cryptocurrency dinner, alleging—incorrectly—that Trump made 40 percent of his wealth from crypto during his presidency.

Panelists Greg Gutfeld and Jesse Watters sharply rebuked her for changing the subject and accused her of making false claims. In response, Tarlov insisted she was pointing out corruption and profit in public office, an argument that failed to sway her critics.

Online, conservatives called for her removal from Fox News, with some describing her as unqualified and accusing her of spreading misinformation. Critics argued that Tarlov’s comments about Trump were both inaccurate and off-topic, while others speculated she was intentionally stirring controversy.

Social media backlash and defense

Social media users quickly seized on Tarlov’s apology and her Trump remarks. Some accused her of being a “paid actress,” suggesting her views were so extreme they could not be genuine. Others questioned why Fox News continued to employ her, given what they saw as repeated missteps and divisive rhetoric.

One user wrote, “Why does Fox News even employ her? She brings nothing to the table and Jessie and Greg call her out on all her lies, dumb liberal!!!” Another claimed, “Trump is the only president to lose money in office and the only one to donate his salary.”

Despite the criticism, some defended Tarlov’s role as the lone liberal voice on “The Five,” arguing that her presence ensures a diversity of perspectives on the panel. These supporters contended that her apology was a necessary reflection on the broader problems facing cable news, not just Fox News.

Broader concerns about cable news

Tarlov is not alone in voicing concerns about cable news. Other prominent media figures, including former “Meet the Press” host Chuck Todd and former Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly, have criticized the industry in recent years. Todd described cable news as dominated by attempts to “game an algorithm,” while Kelly said the format remains “stilted, guided, fake.”

Larry Sabato, for his part, has argued that cable networks often avoid holding President Trump accountable, instead opting for “both-sides coverage” to avoid retribution. He warned that this approach allows powerful figures to intimidate media organizations and stifle genuine scrutiny.

Media executives have reportedly urged other hosts, such as those on ABC’s “The View,” to moderate their criticism of Trump, fearing potential backlash. These developments underscore the complex relationship between news outlets, their audiences, and the politicians they cover.