Fox News viewers are no strangers to drama, but few could have predicted the whirlwind that erupted this week as Judge Jeanine Pirro, the network’s outspoken legal analyst and former prosecutor, made headlines with her surprise return to the late-night stage. After a high-profile departure from The Five to serve as interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Pirro is now poised for a guest appearance on Gutfeld!—and the Fox News universe is buzzing with speculation about what comes next.

A Sudden Exit, a Storied Legacy

To understand why Pirro’s return has set social media ablaze, it’s worth retracing her remarkable journey at Fox News. For over a decade, Pirro has been a force to be reckoned with, known for her uncompromising opinions and signature courtroom charisma. She first joined the network in 2006 as a legal analyst, quickly rising to host the hit show Justice with Judge Jeanine from 2011 to 2022. Her Saturday night broadcasts became appointment television for millions, with fans tuning in for her tough-on-crime takes and magnetic delivery.

In 2022, Pirro transitioned to a full-time spot on The Five, joining Greg Gutfeld, Dana Perino, and Jesse Watters. Her legal insights and fiery commentary added new energy to the already dynamic panel, helping The Five solidify its status as cable news’ most-watched program—drawing an average of 4.6 million viewers in early 2025. But it was never just about the numbers: Pirro’s presence sparked passionate debate and, sometimes, controversy, making her both a fan favorite and a lightning rod for criticism.

Her abrupt exit in May 2025, to accept a temporary appointment as U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. under President Donald Trump, stunned viewers and colleagues alike. Fox News issued a glowing statement, lauding Pirro’s “wonderful addition” to The Five and her 14-year run as a “beloved host.” Still, her departure left a noticeable void on the show, with a rotating cast of guest hosts struggling to capture her unique blend of legal gravitas and on-air bravado.

The Gutfeld! Appearance: A Calculated Move?

Now, just months after her departure, Pirro is set to return to Fox News in a headline-grabbing guest appearance on Gutfeld!, the network’s irreverent late-night talk show. Hosted by Greg Gutfeld, the program has become a ratings powerhouse in its own right, often outpacing traditional late-night rivals with its blend of sharp humor and political satire.

Pirro’s reappearance is more than a simple guest spot. Teasers hint she’ll address her whirlwind stint in Washington, D.C., and, perhaps more tantalizingly, drop clues about her future plans at Fox News. Industry insiders and fans alike are reading between the lines: Is this the start of a full-blown comeback? Could Pirro be eyeing a return to The Five—or even a shakeup of its current lineup?

Rumors, Reactions, and Realities

The speculation has only grown as Pirro herself has been coy about her intentions. In recent interviews and social media posts, she’s offered cryptic hints about her next move, fueling excitement among her loyal fanbase. On X (formerly Twitter), hashtags like #BringBackPirro and #PirroReturns have trended, with viewers calling her “irreplaceable” and praising her ability to “cut through the noise.”

“Jeanine was the spark that made The Five must-see TV,” wrote one user. “Nobody brings the heat like she does.”

Her legal background, including her history-making tenure as Westchester County’s first female district attorney, has always lent her commentary a unique edge. Fans admire her resilience, pointing to her ability to weather personal and professional storms—from a 2006 political scandal to defamation lawsuits related to the 2020 election—while remaining one of the most recognizable faces in conservative media.

Why Her Return Matters

If Pirro does return to The Five, it could mark a turning point for Fox News. While the show’s ratings remain strong, some longtime viewers say it’s missing the spark Pirro brought to the table. Her chemistry with Gutfeld, Perino, and Watters was a key ingredient in the show’s success, and her absence has been keenly felt.

Moreover, her brief experience as U.S. Attorney adds a new layer to her credibility. She’s seen the inner workings of Washington up close, and her insights on legal and political matters could offer fresh perspectives as the 2024 election cycle heats up.

Still, a return wouldn’t be without challenges. Pirro’s appointment to the U.S. Attorney role drew scrutiny, especially given her outspoken support for former President Trump’s 2020 election claims—an issue that led to high-profile lawsuits against Fox News by voting technology companies. Navigating these controversies while reintegrating into The Five’s current lineup will require both finesse and fortitude.

The New Face of Conservative Media?

Pirro’s story is emblematic of a broader trend: the increasingly porous boundary between media, politics, and public service. Her move from Fox News to the Trump administration—and now back again—underscores the revolving door that defines much of today’s conservative media landscape. Other Fox personalities, such as Pete Hegseth and Sean Duffy, have taken similar paths, blurring the lines between journalism and political advocacy.

Her return to Gutfeld! is also a reminder of how cable news is evolving. Audiences crave not just information but entertainment, and personalities like Pirro and Gutfeld thrive by delivering both. Their blend of humor, debate, and unfiltered opinion is a winning formula in a media environment where authenticity and engagement matter more than ever.

What to Watch For

As anticipation builds for Pirro’s appearance on Gutfeld!, viewers can expect a lively, unpredictable hour. She’s likely to reflect candidly on her time in D.C., share behind-the-scenes insights, and—if the teasers are any indication—drop hints about her next chapter. Gutfeld, never one to pull punches, will no doubt probe for details, making for must-see TV.

Whether Pirro’s guest spot is a one-off event or the prelude to a larger comeback, her reentry into the Fox News orbit is already reshaping the conversation. Network executives will be watching viewer reactions closely, weighing the possibility of a full-time return.

Why This Story Resonates

At its core, Jeanine Pirro’s saga is about resilience, reinvention, and the enduring power of personality in American media. From her groundbreaking legal career to her polarizing TV persona, Pirro has defied expectations and sparked conversation at every turn. Her potential return to The Five wouldn’t just thrill fans—it could redefine the dynamics of one of cable news’ most influential shows.

As she steps back into the spotlight, all eyes are on what comes next. In a media landscape hungry for bold voices and authentic stories, Jeanine Pirro is once again at the center of the storm.