The View, a daytime talk show has a long history of political debate . It also has had a recent flare-up from discussions surrounding the recent Inaugural Ceremony and resulting opinions on the topic.
The View and Political Discussions
The View features a panel of women who often delve into intense discussions of various hot topics including the most recent political and social issues. These conversations generate intense responses both on the show and online showing how a platform for various views may influence viewers
Controversy Surrounding Carrie Underwood's Inauguration Performance
The recent announcement of Carrie Underwood performing at the Inaugural Ceremony has ignited conflict among The View's cohosts. Notably Joy Behar condemned Underwood’s choice and her opinion of supporting someone that is seen to be negative in the world. The comments sparked conversations both online and within the series.
Backlash and Reactions
The statement by Joy Behar created a variety of backlash online with the claims that Underwood was being “un-American”. With many viewers making that connection the idea that she was wrong or the claim about that was untrue was also spread by the show’s commentators. Many social media posts arose which gave an added layer to a very complex situation.
Fake Lawsuit Rumors
Various social media channels released a variety of videos and other claims that Carrie was filing a suit due to the controversial remarks. These videos gained popularity as time passed yet none of the claims were true. No official news sources or Carrie's team confirmed any action had taken place.
Co-Host Reactions
Although there were heated moments from the discussion not every host agreed and offered opposing views to Joy. This provides more layers to a more complicated concept while showing the different demographics that may see issues from different views.
Whoopi Goldberg's Perspective
Whoopi Goldberg was seen defending Underwood’s right to perform citing free speech ideals. She noted that just because she disagrees with a politician did not mean she didn't support individual freedom. Goldberg was in contrast with her longtime personal feelings on former president Donald Trump in her support of Underwood.
Alyssa Farah Griffin and Sunny Hostin's Views
Alyssa noted that she could understand how it made business sense for Underwood to perform for the large group that supports Trump’s campaign. Hostin also said the decision on her views were complicated with personal feelings versus supporting an artist and creative choices that should not be impacted. Each host came into these arguments with multiple ideas regarding the rights of the situation which is what The View has come to be known for.
ABC’s Directive
According to many insiders there is an underlying level of “playing nice with Carrie” after seeing an explosive reaction to the various opinions and with Underwood’s ties to ABC as she was being called one of ABC’s golden girls and that ratings for her work are a major contributor for the network.
Restrictions of The View Panel
There was also mention that the network had given guidelines on what the hosts were able to discuss surrounding Underwood for fear of alienating her fanbase. Many cohosts are seen to disagree which makes some internal conflict which may be displayed on air with how opinions may be delivered from each of their own positions. This gave rise to the theory that ABC may attempt to make the conversations with guests less intense than before to protect from backlash.
Elisabeth Hasselbeck's Critique
Former View host Elizabeth Hasselbeck also offered input saying Behar should have been more supportive with all of the details surrounding Underwood’s choices. She also critiqued that Behar was inaccurate and should show support instead of attacking another person's freedoms.
Differences of Opinions
Hasselbeck is not new to opposing Behar on various points, as that was showcased from time when both ladies worked on the talk show which shows a wide range of diverse viewpoints from various perspectives on complex topics. Their debates over issues such as the Iraq War and other political and social events was something many saw when she was an active part of the show before moving to Fox news.
Key Takeaways
- "The View" had recently featured a discussion on Carrie Underwood’s performance at the Inauguration Ceremony which sparked new conversations.
- Joy Behar's remarks were viewed by some as un-supportive creating further conversations on freedom of speech.
- Rumors of a lawsuit surfaced but no confirmation followed by a media source or Carrie's team.
- There were varied views expressed by the panel along with some restrictions on discussion from network executives that made the whole scenario more difficult to address.
- This instance shows how social media can influence and cause confusion through rumor mills that do not have factual proof and this all took place surrounding "The View" television show.