Fox News Viewers React After Dolly Parton Tribute Is Interrupted For Jesse Watters Update
Fox News viewers accused the network of being “disrespectful” after a tribute to Dolly Parton was abruptly interrupted for a segment featuring Jesse Watters.
Fox News cuts away from Dolly coverage to show Jesse Watters news (Image: Getty)
Fox News faced backlash on Wednesday after the network cut away from a discussion honoring Dolly Parton to air an update involving conservative host Jesse Watters.
The moment occurred on August 26, one day after Parton died at age 80. During Fox’s The Five, the network discussed the legendary singer’s death as photos of Parton from throughout her career appeared on screen.
Co-host Emily Compagno was speaking about President Donald Trump’s response to Parton’s death and his decision to have flags lowered in her honor.
“President Trump announced flags will be lowered tonight at 6 pm to honor her life. Saying, ‘There has never been anyone like her, and never will be.’”
The tribute was quickly interrupted as Compagno moved on to a segment featuring Watters. “But first, Jesse Watters is taking on Michigan’s far-left senate candidate, Abdul El-Sayed. Last night, grilling him on all the issues,” she said.
Viewers flooded social media to criticize Fox News for moving away from Parton’s tribute. One viewer wrote, “That’s disrespectful, man…..” “Huh? Dolly is far more important to viewers than that interview,” another person said.
A third viewer appeared to mock the transition, writing, “because owning the libs is more important -Compango.” “Really, just skip the watters trash and go straight to Dolly,” another said.
A fifth viewer took aim at the decision in a longer post, writing, “We’re going to celebrate the life of an American icon who did so much for women, for children, for the music industry, and is admired and beloved by everyone all over the world, but first, look what our resident tire-slasher did the other day with a communist…”
Fox’s Emily Compagno abruptly cut away from the Dolly tribute (Image: Fox)
“F**king shameless,” another viewer added, as a final wrote, “Fox News is f—ing poison.”
Parton died on August 25 at the age of 80. Her family did not disclose a cause of death, but said that she “died peacefully today in Nashville.”
The announcement was shared on Parton’s official Instagram alongside a video from her nephew Bryan Seaver on behalf of the Parton family.
In an official obituary, her family reflected on the singer’s decades-long career and the impact she had on generations of fans.
“A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”
