Jenny McCarthy 'The View' Confirmed, Actress 'Thrilled'
Jenny McCarthy confirmed that she is in fact joining "The View" as a replacement for departing co-host Joy Behar, despite previous reports.
The former model was rumored to be joining the morning show earlier this month, but shot down the hype- citing her television show on VH1.
However, "The View" just lost longtime co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck last week to Fox News, and Behar announced that she is retiring next month.
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Furthermore, founding co-host Barbara Walters is also leaving the show next summer, although she will stay on as producer.
As a result, Walters officially announced the entrance of McCarthy to "The View" on Monday.
"Jenny brings us intelligence as well as warmth and humor," the 83-year-old started in a statement, according to Entertainment Weekly. "She can be serious and outrageous. She has connected with our audience and offers a fresh point of view. Jenny will be a great addition to the show as we usher in an exciting new chapter of 'The View.'"
Also excited about the morning show is McCarthy herself.
"I'm beyond thrilled," said the comedian-actress in a statement. "I look forward to helping make hot topics a little bit hotter, and showing my mom that my interrupting skills have finally paid off."
In order to take the position on "The View," McCarthy had to part ways with her eponymous show on VH1.
The actress had initially denied joining "The View" because of "The Jenny McCarthy Show."
"I can't cause I have my own show," McCarthy told Extra TV when asked about co-hosting on the 17th season of the morning talk show.
"Maybe someday in the future," she added.
Meanwhile, McCarthy will be joining Walters, Whoopi Goldberg and Sherri Shepherd on "The View."
"The cast and crew get a kick out of Jenny," said a television insider, according to Us Weekly. "She's a good fit."
Even though "The Jenny McCarthy Show" may not have been a ratings success, McCarthy may be able to strengthen "The View."
"She may not be able to carry a show [on her own], but she works well with a group," the insider added.
McCarthy's permanent role on "The View" begins Sept. 9.
"The View" is the fourth-longest running national daytime talk show in history and covers news items ranging from social and political issues to tabloid and celebrity news.
