Shocking Move: ABC Axes Joy Behar and Whoopi Goldberg from The View Over ‘Toxic’ Image – Is This a Smart Decision or a Major Mistake?

In a move that has rocked the world of daytime television, ABC has reportedly made the bold decision to not renew the contracts of The View veterans Joy Behar and Whoopi Goldberg, citing their “toxic” image as the primary reason.

The news, which broke in early 2025, marks the end of a legendary era for the iconic talk show, as both Behar and Goldberg have been key pillars of its success for decades.

But as viewers and industry insiders scramble to process the news, one burning question remains: was this a strategic move by ABC, or a colossal mistake that could backfire and alienate its loyal fanbase?

Joy Behar, a founding co-host of The View since its debut in 1997, and Whoopi Goldberg, who joined in 2007, have long been known for their outspoken and sometimes controversial opinions.

Behar’s sharp wit and Goldberg’s commanding presence helped the show become a cultural phenomenon, covering everything from politics to entertainment with fearless authenticity.

Together, they’ve weathered countless controversies and co-host changes, turning The View into an unmissable, if often polarizing, force in daytime television.

According to sources familiar with the situation, ABC’s decision stems from a desire to rebrand The View and move away from what executives have labeled “toxic elements.

” While the term remains somewhat vague, many believe it refers to the divisive nature of Behar and Goldberg’s on-air personas.

Both women have sparked outrage over the years—Goldberg, for her comments on sensitive topics like the Holocaust in 2022, which led to a brief suspension, and Behar, for her blunt critiques of political figures, which often sent shockwaves through social media.

These moments may have driven ratings up, but they also fueled criticism that The View had become a breeding ground for division.

The decision, though, seems abrupt, especially considering The View’s continued dominance in daytime television, with millions of viewers tuning in daily.

Reactions to the news on social media have been swift and mixed.

Some fans have cheered the move, claiming “Finally, ABC is cleaning house!” Others have expressed their disappointment, calling it a “huge mistake” and stating, “Whoopi and Joy are The View.

” Supporters of Behar and Goldberg argue that their authenticity and unapologetic approach are precisely what set the show apart from other daytime talk shows.

One fan remarked, “They say what others won’t—that’s not toxic, that’s real.

” On the other hand, critics have lauded the move, pointing to a perceived decline in civility on the show.

“The yelling and constant interruptions were unbearable,” one commenter wrote.

“Good riddance.”

The question now is what direction ABC plans to take with The View moving forward.

Behar, 82, and Goldberg, 69, brought a level of experience and edge that younger hosts, such as Sara Haines and Alyssa Farah Griffin, might struggle to replace.

While ABC has not yet announced replacements, insiders suggest the network may be pushing for a fresher, less contentious lineup.

However, scaling back the heat and boldness that made the show popular could risk turning it into just another bland, generic talk show.

After all, The View has always thrived on the clash of personalities and differing opinions.

This decision also reflects broader trends in media, where networks are increasingly wary of alienating viewers with polarizing personalities.

As the television landscape becomes more fragmented, ABC may be banking on a “safer” approach that appeals to a more unified audience.

Joy Behar reflects on 'mean' former cohosts at 'The View'

But is “safe” really what fans want from a show built on provocative commentary and unfiltered takes?

The risks are high: by losing Behar and Goldberg, ABC could alienate the very viewers who tuned in for the unpredictability and passion that these two icons brought to the table.

The impact of this move will take time to fully understand.

If ABC manages to reimagine The View in a way that respects its legacy while appealing to a broader audience, the decision could be a stroke of genius.

However, if the absence of Behar and Goldberg leaves the show without its trademark edge and energy, the network may find itself regretting the loss of its most influential co-hosts.

For now, the mics are off, the chairs are empty, and the debate about this bold decision continues to unfold—both on air and off.