FOX News Morning Shake-Up: Johnny “Joey” Jones and Bill Melugin Step Into the Spotlight as Hosts
In a move that’s generating buzz across morning television and conservative media circles, Johnny “Joey” Jones and Bill Melugin — two of Fox News Channel’s most recognizable rising stars — have stepped into expanded on-air roles, signaling a fresh wave of energy and credibility for the network’s beloved morning lineup.
A Marine’s Voice on Your Weekend Mornings
Retired Marine bomb technician turned Fox News contributor Joey Jones has officially joined the Fox & Friends Weekend team as a rotating co-host. Already a popular voice on veteran affairs, national security, and American values, Jones brings a grounded, real-world perspective that resonates deeply with Fox viewers.
Known for his bestselling memoir Unbroken Bonds of Battle, Jones isn’t new to the Fox family. But his transition to the host chair alongside Rachel Campos-Duffy and other weekend anchors has solidified his position as a compelling, authentic presence in the morning news space.
“I’m not here to be polished,” Jones told a recent audience. “I’m here to be honest — and to speak for those who’ve served, struggled, and still believe in this country.”
His appearances often highlight military issues, personal resilience, and the kind of patriotism that’s as much lived as it is spoken.
Melugin’s Star Continues to Rise
Meanwhile, Bill Melugin, Fox’s Los Angeles-based correspondent and one of the most visible faces in immigration and border coverage, has quietly — and effectively — become a guest anchor for America’s Newsroom. Stepping in for Bill Hemmer in late June, Melugin co-hosted alongside Dana Perino and Brit Hume in a performance that many viewers described as “refreshing,” “confident,” and “surprisingly natural.”
“He looks like a movie star and talks like a seasoned journalist,” one viewer commented online. “Can we get him full time?”
Melugin, who rose to national attention for his coverage of the U.S.-Mexico border and breaking investigations, has long been praised for his balance of charisma and credibility. His debut behind the Newsroom desk only intensified calls from fans to make his guest spot a permanent seat.
A Generational Shift?
While the core weekday trio of Fox & Friends — Steve Doocy, Ainsley Earhardt, and Brian Kilmeade — remains intact, recent months have shown the network experimenting with new voices and perspectives, particularly on weekends and during fill-in stints.
The move comes amid broader shifts in the cable news landscape, as networks face growing pressure to bring in voices that blend experience with relatability.
Both Jones and Melugin represent that new formula: a warfighter turned truth-teller, and a young reporter with real-world grit and newsroom poise.
What’s Next?
As Joey Jones settles into his new weekend rhythm and Melugin continues to pop up across Fox’s weekday programming, one thing’s clear — the next generation of Fox News talent has arrived, and they’re bringing both backbone and authenticity to the spotlight.