CNN averaged 615,000 total primetime viewers and 112,000 A25-54 viewers in the demo during primetime for the week of September 8. It was up +36% in total viewers and +81% in the demo compared to the previous week. 

In total day, the network had 435,000 total viewers and 75,000 viewers in the demo. This resulted in a +19% increase in total viewers and a +39% increase in the demo during this daypart.

Among all cable networks, CNN finished in fourth, jumping from sixth, in total viewers, and it was in the No. 5 position, rising from the No. 18 position, in the demo during primetime. It finished in fourth place during total day and moved up six places to third in the demo. 

When looking at these networks’ performance during the same period a year ago, which featured the presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris:

• During primetime, Fox News was down by -3% in total viewers and -11% in the A25-54 demo. During total day, the network grew by +15% in total viewers and +3% in the demo.
• MSNBC was down -58% in total viewers and -74% in the demo. During total day, the network was down -54% in total viewers and -64% in the demo.
• In primetime, CNN declined by -48% in total viewers and -63% in the demo. During total day, it saw losses of -33% in total viewers and -44% in the demo.

PROGRAMMING:

Fox News had 14 out of the 15 spots of the most-watched cable news shows of the week, with The Five continuing to lead the way with 4.431 million total viewers at 5 p.m. ET. MSNBC was represented in the chart by The Rachel Maddow Show at 9 p.m. ET on Monday, taking the No. 13 position with 1.853 million total viewers. 

Hannity took the top spot in the Adults 25-54 demo, averaging 601,000 viewers at 10 p.m. ET. Fox News took all 15 slots for the week of September 8.

Prime Time

Total Day

Week of Sept 8 2025 Cable Ranker by Adweek