In a move that has shocked the television industry, ABC has reportedly decided not to renew the contracts of Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar, two of the most iconic hosts of The View.
According to inside sources, the network is seeking to overhaul the long-running daytime talk show, aiming to “move away from toxic elements” that have increasingly defined its public perception.
Goldberg and Behar, known for their outspoken personalities and unfiltered debates, have been central to The View’s success. Whoopi joined the show in 2007 and quickly became a key moderator, while Behar, one of the original co-hosts from 1997, has been a consistent presence over the years, save for a brief hiatus from 2013 to 2015.
Together, the two have been at the forefront of fiery discussions on politics, culture, and current events, often drawing both praise and backlash for their commentary.
However, recent years have seen a rise in criticism, with many accusing the show of fostering an environment of hostility and division.
Heated on-air arguments, particularly on political topics, have sometimes devolved into personal attacks, making headlines for the wrong reasons. Critics have labeled the show as “toxic,” citing its tendency to polarize audiences rather than foster productive dialogue.
According to sources familiar with ABC’s decision, the network is aiming to rebrand The View with a more balanced and less combative tone.
“While we respect the contributions Whoopi and Joy have made to the show, it’s time to take The View in a new direction,” an insider revealed. “The goal is to create an atmosphere that encourages meaningful conversation without the vitriol.”
The decision to part ways with Goldberg and Behar is reportedly part of a broader strategy to attract a younger and more diverse audience. In recent months, ABC has been scouting new talent, including journalists, cultural commentators, and influencers who can bring fresh perspectives to the table.
Names being floated include women with strong digital followings, reflecting the network’s interest in connecting with a social media-savvy demographic.
The news has already ignited a firestorm of reactions online. Fans of the show are divided, with some lamenting the departure of two of the most recognizable faces on the panel and others applauding ABC for taking steps to revitalize the program.
“They’re the heart of The View! This is a mistake,” one fan tweeted. Meanwhile, another commented, “This might be the shake-up the show needs. It’s been way too toxic lately.”
Goldberg and Behar have yet to comment publicly on the decision, but sources close to both hosts suggest they are “disappointed” by the network’s direction. “They’ve dedicated years to the show and believed in its mission to spark important conversations,” an insider shared. “This feels like the end of an era.”
Despite the upheaval, ABC seems committed to retaining The View’s core premise of a multi-generational, multi-perspective panel.
The network is reportedly considering adding a mix of veteran journalists and rising stars in entertainment to create a lineup that appeals to a broader audience.
As The View enters its next chapter, the stakes are high. The show has long been a cornerstone of ABC’s daytime lineup, and its ability to adapt to changing viewer expectations will likely determine its future.
For Goldberg and Behar, the decision marks the close of a significant chapter in their careers, but it’s unlikely to be the last we hear from either of them.
This bold move by ABC is sure to dominate conversations in the coming weeks, as fans, critics, and industry insiders weigh in on the future of The View and what it means for the ever-evolving landscape of daytime television.