Fox News Channel commenced broadcasting, marking a significant moment in the landscape of American media. Launched from New York City, the channel aspired to deliver continuous news coverage while presenting a distinctly conservative viewpoint. Created by media mogul Rupert Murdoch and Roger Ailes, Fox News sought to differentiate itself from traditional news networks, which often had a reputation for liberal bias. The channel aimed to fill a void in programming that catered to more conservative audiences, as identified by its founders through market research. Initially launched with a limited reach, Fox News was available to approximately 17 million households. The network brought innovative programming concepts into its schedule, featuring a mixture of news, opinion, and commentary shows, which quickly attracted a dedicated viewer base. Its tagline, 'Fair & Balanced', became a defining catchphrase, although it would eventually become a focal point of criticism over the network’s perceived lack of impartiality.

In the months following its launch, Fox News began building a roster of prominent journalists and commentators, whose personalities added to the channel's appeal. With shows like 'The O'Reilly Factor' and 'The Hannity and Colmes Show', the network created engaging, often provocative content that spurred discussions across the nation. The channel's approach marked a departure from traditional news reporting, focusing heavily on opinion-driven segments that attracted viewers who resonated with its ideological stance. This innovative model laid the groundwork for the channel's expansion and eventual leadership in cable news ratings.