The View

The View is an enduring, influential daytime television talk show that originally premiered on ABC in 1997. Created by legendary broadcast journalist Barbara Walters, the show, as the title suggests, provides 'a view' on a myriad of social, political, and entertainment topics, through the eyes of diverse set of women from different generations and walks of life. However, Abby Huntsman did not join this veritable panel of co-hosts until much later, in September 2018.

Engaging, lively, and sometimes contentious, The View stands recalled as one of the first talk shows that dared to position women with varied backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, at the heart of television debates. The selection of the co-hosts has always been a vital element of maintaining this diversity of 'views'. From the original panel of Barbara Walters, Joy Behar, Star Jones, Debbie Matenopoulos, and Meredith Vieira, to the inclusion of Abby Huntsman in the later seasons, the show has always featured strong, opinionated women who are unafraid to take on topical issues and controversial subjects.

Abby Huntsman, when brought on board, added even more breadth to the show’s spectrum of perspectives. A former Fox News anchor and the daughter of politician Jon Huntsman Jr., Huntsman embodied a youthful, modern, and informed conservative viewpoint that invigorated the discussions on the show. The stark contrast of her political and social views resonated with a significant viewer demographic, often sparking animated discussions and debating points.

The structure of the show typically begins with the "Hot Topics" segment, where the co-hosts discuss major headlines of the day, often sparking lively and sometimes passionate debates. The co-hosts discuss current events and trends, from politics to pop culture, in an open, round table format that encourages discourse, even dissent.

Considering the range of inherent political, cultural, and generational disparities among the co-hosts, debate and disagreement are second nature to the show's format. Huntsman’s conservative slant created a counterbalance, often locking horns with the more liberal views of her fellow co-hosts. Yet, aside from the political debates and arguments, the co-hosts also unite on many aspects of shared womanhood, motherhood, societal norms and practices, and the overwhelming call for equality and justice.

Further segments on The View often include guest interviews, showcasing a multifaceted set of personalities from politicians and authors to movie stars and musicians. These interviews give viewers an inside look into their lives, achievements, and viewpoints, often becoming secondary platforms for further conversations and discussions among the hosts.

The View has always prided itself on encouraging the free expression of ideas, debates, and even heated disagreements. Its “no holds barred” approach to tackling pertinent topics has been a game-changer in daytime television. Customers are drawn to the candid discussions and, often, the sparks that fly in moments of controversy. In this melting pot of opinions, Abby Huntsman’s stint on the show added a distinctive layer, a fresh take on conservatism, and an unmistakable honesty that struck a chord with many viewers.

In many respects, The View emerged as an iconic platform, not just because of its unscripted freewheeling format, but also due to the distinctive personalities of its co-hosts. The inclusion of Abby Huntsman was a timely decision that injected a new vitality into the show. Together, the women of The View showcase the power of differing viewpoints, thus keeping the spirit of this groundbreaking show alive, dynamic, and relevant.

The popularity of The View continues to endure, delighting and enthralling viewers with its candid discussions, intriguing interviews, and toe-to-toe debates, proving that the show remains influential, inspirational, and relevant. Even beyond its 22nd season, The View stays true to its commitment - to provide viewers with diverse, engaging, and honest ‘views’ on the world.