Firing Line with Margaret Hoover (2018)
The acclaimed PBS public affairs program where Margaret Hoover hosts rigorous, civil conversations with leading political minds across the ideological spectrum.
Firing Line with Margaret Hoover - Series Information
- Original Title: Firing Line with Margaret Hoover
- First Air Year: 2018
- Last Air Year: 2025
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Talk, War, Politics
- Content Rating (US): TV-PG
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (27 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 9
- Number of Episodes: 304
- Status: Returning Series
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: June 22, 2018 (United States - TV-PG)
- Networks: PBS
- Alternative Titles: Firing Line (US)
- Production Companies: Thirteen, The Documentary Group
- Production Countries: United States of America
Firing Line with Margaret Hoover - Plot
Join author, activist and commentator Margaret Hoover for a public affairs talk show that delivers a civil and engaging contest of ideas among the brightest minds and voices from across the ideological spectrum.
Firing Line with Margaret Hoover - Trailer
See the official trailer and get a sense of the conversations that define this landmark PBS program.
Where to Watch Firing Line with Margaret Hoover
Looking for where to watch Firing Line with Margaret Hoover?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Firing Line with Margaret Hoover - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Margaret Hoover
- Larry Hogan
- Jon Meacham
- Chris Christie
- David Petraeus
- H.R. McMaster
- Mike Pence
- Stacey Abrams
- José Andrés Puerta
- Condoleezza Rice
Executive Producers
- Tom Yellin
- Margaret Hoover
Firing Line with Margaret Hoover - FAQs
What makes Firing Line with Margaret Hoover unique?
In an era of partisan shouting matches, Firing Line stands out by prioritizing genuine dialogue over political theater. Margaret Hoover brings a rare cross-ideological curiosity, pressing guests from both left and right with equal rigor, making it one of the few political talk shows where ideas genuinely clash and evolve.
Is Firing Line with Margaret Hoover based on a previous show?
Yes. The show revives the legendary Firing Line originally hosted by conservative intellectual William F. Buckley Jr., which ran from 1966 to 1999. Margaret Hoover, Buckley's great-granddaughter-in-law, relaunched the program on PBS in 2018, preserving its tradition of substantive, civil political debate.
Who are the notable guests on Firing Line with Margaret Hoover?
The show has hosted an impressive roster of political heavyweights and public intellectuals, including former Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, General David Petraeus, General H.R. McMaster, Governor Larry Hogan, Governor Chris Christie, and activist Stacey Abrams, among many others.
Where can you watch Firing Line with Margaret Hoover?
Firing Line with Margaret Hoover airs on PBS. Episodes are also available to stream on the PBS website and PBS app. Availability may vary by region, so check your local PBS affiliate and streaming services for the most current viewing options.
How many seasons does Firing Line with Margaret Hoover have?
The show has run for nine seasons since its 2018 debut, accumulating over 300 episodes. Each season follows an annual format, with Season 2025 currently airing. The program's consistent renewal reflects its strong standing within PBS's public affairs programming lineup.
How has Firing Line with Margaret Hoover been received by critics?
Critics have praised the show for restoring a sense of intellectual rigor and civility to political television. Hoover's interviewing style — probing yet respectful — has earned wide admiration. The program is frequently cited as a model for constructive political discourse in a polarized media landscape.
What is the format of Firing Line with Margaret Hoover?
Each episode runs approximately 27 minutes and features Margaret Hoover in a one-on-one conversation with a single guest — a politician, author, activist, or public intellectual. The focused format allows for deeper, more substantive exchanges than the panel-style discussions common on other political programs.
What shows are similar to Firing Line with Margaret Hoover?
Fans of thoughtful political conversation may also enjoy Real Time with Bill Maher, The Rachel Maddow Show, Washington Journal, and The Diplomat. For a different angle on political storytelling, Madam Secretary and The World Wars offer compelling dramatized and documentary perspectives on governance and global affairs.
More About Firing Line with Margaret Hoover
Explore further details about the series on these authoritative resources.