Tucker Carlson Faces Three New Challengers

Tucker Carlson's X show may have some competition, with three news faces launching programs on the social network formerly known as Twitter.

Carlson previously hosted Tucker Carlson Tonight on Fox News between 2016 and 2023. In April last year, the network announced that he was leaving but did not specify the reasons. The talk show host has been a divisive figure in the media landscape. While some have accused him of promoting conspiracy theories, others have pointed to the popularity of his shows among audiences.

Tucker on X premiered shortly after he left Fox News, with the new show reaching millions of viewers. In December, Carlson announced plans to establish his own media company, with members-only content and a subscription service.

Three public figures have now signed a deal with tech mogul Elon Musk, who purchased X in April 2022. Former CNN host Don Lemon, sports presenter Jim Rome and former politician Tulsi Gabbard will be launching shows, with Musk confirming the new partnerships on Tuesday.

Earlier this month, Lemon announced he would be returning to screens with The Don Lemon Show.

Taking to X to share the news, the host said he'll be "back bigger, bolder, freer!"

The journalist left CNN in April after nine years. He'd been co-anchoring the network's This Morning show for less than six months. Lemon was left "stunned" by the firing.

Lemon's removal reportedly followed behind-the-scenes conflict with his co-workers, which included allegations of misogyny.

The reporter was also publicly accused of sexism after he called Republican presidential primary candidate Nikki Haley and other women over 50 past their "prime." During an episode of This Morning in February, Lemon said a woman is in her prime in "her twenties and thirties."

When questioned by co-host Poppy Harlow on his meaning of "prime," Lemon refused to give her a straight answer, telling her to "Google it."

Lemon later apologized on social media, but his comments sparked fierce backlash. He has also denied all claims of misbehavior on set.

Former Hawaiian congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard will also be launching a show on X. Gabbard left the Democratic party in 2022, claiming the group is "under the complete control of an elitist cabal of warmongers driven by cowardly wokeness."

In a video statement, Gabbard said her new show would "defend free speech" and will focus on "the truth of what's happening in our country and world but that those in power don't what you to hear."

Sports radio host Jim Rome introduced his own show on the social media site. In a post, he said he was "hyped" to announce his new partnership with X, calling it "an incredible opportunity." The 59-year-old has hosted The Jim Rome Show since 1996, making it one of the longest-running syndicated sports programs in America.

He will be bringing a digital offering to the platform, beginning after the Super Bowl in February.