Bob Beckel returned to his popular role as the liberal counterpoint on the Fox News show “The Five” on Monday after a 19-month hiatus.
“It’s so good to be back,” Beckel tweeted about returning to the 5 p.m. news show, which has been No.1 in its time slot on cable news for the past 66 months.
Beckel was a popular figure on the show and didn’t waste a moment, getting co-host Dana Perino to curse on air and flipping off a guest on his first day back, according to The Blaze.
The show also features Eric Bolling, Kimberly Guilfoyle, Greg Gutgfeld, and Dana Perino, with Juan Williams appearing occasionally.
“Bob was missed by many fans of 'The Five' and we’re happy to welcome him back to the show,” Executive Chairman of Fox News and 21st Century Fox Rupert Murdoch said, Fox News reported.
Beckel’s co-hosts all warmly welcomed his return on Twitter as well.
Beckel has been a contributor for Fox News since 2000 except for a short stint with CNN in 2015 after leaving "The Five." He also was a columnist for USA Today.
Before joining Fox News, Beckel was a longtime political consultant for various Democratic politicians, including presidential candidate Walter Mondale,.
Beckel said he missed his co-hosts and his many fans, who sent him thousands of letters and emails filled with well-wishes, he reported upon his return.
“I have no doubt it will be a vigorous yet entertaining debate,” Beckel said of returning to the show, Fox News reported.