A major shakeup is hitting daytime television as ABC has reportedly decided not to extend the contracts of Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar, two of the most well-known hosts of The View. The network is said to be moving away from “toxic” components, marking a dramatic turn for the long-running talk show.
For years, The View has been a powerhouse in daytime TV, driven by heated debates, controversial discussions, and unfiltered opinions from its panel of co-hosts. However, sources within ABC claim the network is looking to “clean house” and distance itself from what it now considers a toxic environment.
According to insiders, ABC executives have been closely monitoring The View’s trajectory and are concerned that the show’s image has become divisive rather than engaging. While heated debates have always been part of The View’s appeal, recent controversies involving Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar have reportedly pushed ABC to its breaking point.
The network’s decision signals a major turning point, as both Goldberg and Behar have been foundational figures on the show. Whoopi, who joined in 2007, has served as the show’s moderator, while Joy Behar, one of the original panelists, has been a staple of the program since its inception in 1997.
While ABC has not officially elaborated on the decision, sources suggest a series of high-profile controversies involving Whoopi and Behar played a major role. Whoopi Goldberg’s Controversial Moments – Over the past few years, Goldberg has faced backlash over several controversial remarks, including a widely criticized statement about the Holocaust, which led to a temporary suspension from the show.
Some executives reportedly feel she has become a “liability” for the brand. Joy Behar’s Fiery Persona – Behar has never shied away from bold political takes, often clashing with guests and co-hosts. While her outspoken nature has brought high ratings, it has also led to frequent viewer complaints and advertiser concerns.
Network Image Concerns – ABC is allegedly looking to “soften” The View’s tone and move toward a more balanced panel, fearing that the show’s current dynamic is alienating a large portion of the audience. An insider claimed, “The network wants to move in a new direction, and that means stepping away from individuals who have been at the center of controversy.”
As soon as reports of ABC’s decision surfaced, fans of Whoopi and Behar erupted in outrage. Many took to social media, calling the network’s move unfair and accusing ABC of caving to pressure from critics who have long targeted The View for its political leanings.
“Whoopi and Joy ARE The View. Without them, the show is done,” one fan wrote.
However, others welcomed the decision, claiming that the show had become too aggressive and one-sided in its discussions. Some viewers suggested that The View had alienated many audiences who once tuned in for lively yet balanced debates.
With two of its biggest stars on their way out, ABC will now have to restructure the show and find replacements—a move that could either revitalize the program or lead to its downfall.
There is no official word yet on who will take over, but rumors are already circulating about potential replacements, including younger, less controversial figures who can broaden the show’s appeal. Some names being floated include former political correspondents, younger media personalities, and even former reality TV stars to inject fresh energy into the program.
One thing is clear: The View will never be the same.
While their time on The View appears to be ending, it’s unlikely that Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar will disappear from the public eye.
Goldberg, an Academy Award-winning actress, still has a successful career in Hollywood and may focus on film and television projects outside of talk shows. Some insiders speculate she may even launch her own podcast or digital series, allowing her to speak freely without network restrictions.
Behar, meanwhile, has always been a comedian at heart, and some believe she may return to her roots in stand-up comedy or pursue a tell-all book deal about her time on The View. Others suggest she might find a home on another network, particularly those looking for bold, outspoken personalities.
With ABC making this dramatic move, some industry analysts believe this could set a precedent for other networks. The decision to remove high-profile hosts over concerns of toxicity suggests that networks are becoming more cautious about the reputations of their top talents.
This shift could mean a more neutral approach to talk shows in the future, moving away from polarizing debates and focusing on discussions that appeal to a broader audience.
Regardless of where audiences stand on the issue, one thing is certain: ABC’s decision to cut ties with Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar marks the end of an era for The View. Whether this move saves the show or leads to its downfall remains to be seen.
For now, all eyes are on ABC to see who they choose to replace two of the most iconic and controversial women in daytime television history.
