The lights are shifting at NewsNation — and this time, it isn’t just a programming tweak. It’s a full-scale primetime reset that signals where the network believes the future of evening television is headed.
In a move that has sent ripples through the cable news world, Katie Pavlich has been confirmed as the permanent host of the network’s coveted 10 p.m. hour, taking over the slot long held by Ashleigh Banfield. The announcement, made on December 12, sets Pavlich up to debut in early 2026, marking the most dramatic shake-up in NewsNation’s lineup in years.
The End Of An Era For “Banfield”
For viewers, the 10 p.m. hour has been synonymous with Ashleigh Banfield — her crime-focused deep dives, emotionally charged interviews and relentless pursuit of justice stories turned the slot into one of the network’s most recognisable brands.
But Banfield isn’t disappearing.
Instead, she is stepping away from nightly primetime to lead NewsNation’s rapidly expanding true-crime division — a strategic move that reflects the explosive growth of crime content across streaming platforms.
“I’m excited to channel the momentum of my Drop Dead Serious podcast brand toward NewsNation’s growing digital audience,” Banfield said in a statement. Calling the success of true crime on streaming platforms “transformative,” she added that she’s eager to help build the network’s multi-platform future in the genre.
Her hit podcast, Drop Dead Serious with Ashleigh Banfield, will now become a cornerstone of NewsNation’s digital crime offering — a shift that insiders describe as “an investment in where audiences are really going.”
Enter Katie Pavlich: From Fox Regular To Primetime Anchor
At first, executives planned to rotate guest hosts in the 10 p.m. hour. But behind the scenes, one name kept rising to the top.
Katie Pavlich.
After more than a decade as one of Fox News’ most recognisable political voices — with regular appearances on The Five, Jesse Watters Primetime and Fox News Sunday — Pavlich is now stepping into her first permanent nightly anchor role.
And she’s not bringing crime stories with her.
Her new show will pivot the hour toward hard-hitting political coverage, focusing on free speech, culture, immigration, national security and foreign policy — signalling a sharp change in tone for NewsNation’s late-night audience.
“It’s a front-row seat to history,” Pavlich said. “I’m honored to join NewsNation during this dynamic period in its development. I can’t wait to buckle in and get started.”
Sixteen Years In The Making
Pavlich’s appointment isn’t a gamble. It’s the culmination of 16 years in political media — from her longtime role as news editor at Townhall.com to her best-selling books including Fast and Furious: Barack Obama’s Bloodiest Scandal and Assault & Flattery: The Truth About the Left and Their War on Women.
Sean Compton, president of Nexstar Networks, made it clear this move is about more than a single show.
“We’re pleased to give our primetime viewers an additional hour of political news and analysis that helps them make sense of the day’s most important headlines,” he said, adding that Pavlich’s “unique voice will be a tremendous asset.”
A Symbolic Moment For NewsNation
One anchor stepping into politics. Another shifting into true crime. Together, these moves represent a turning point.
For Banfield, it’s a pivot toward the booming digital crime market.
For Pavlich, it’s the leap from commentator to primetime authority.
For NewsNation, it’s a statement of intent.
At 10 p.m., the network is no longer telling crime stories.
It’s telling the story of power, politics and the forces shaping the nation — and Katie Pavlich is now holding the microphone.
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