Barbara Walters threatened to fire Joy Behar in 2006 after Behar accidentally revealed that Rosie O’Donnell would join The View, insiders have shared with the National Enquirer. The spill triggered backstage drama and became a major controversy for the ABC talk show.
Behar’s big reveal sparks backlash
Joy Behar told viewers Rosie O’Donnell was coming on The View during an Emmys segment before network execs had announced the guest. In the new Hulu special Behind the Table: A View Reunion, Behar recalled being stunned by Walters’s reaction. She tried to explain it was an honest mistake while shopping, but insiders say Barbara was furious.
Barbara Walters fury confirmed
Sources told the National Enquirer that Walters called Behar later the same day. Barbara warned she might not renew Behar’s contract immediately after the leak. However, Walters later relented and rehired her, according to Behar’s account.
Cast dynamics at The View
Behar has starred on the panel since 1997. She briefly left between 2013 and 2015 but became known for speaking her mind. Insiders say that Walters’s response reflected concerns over leaks and preserving The View’s exclusive reveals.
Spoiler culture and network control
Media critics point out that leaks threaten show exclusivity and ratings. A current producer at The View, speaking anonymously to the National Enquirer, said Walters viewed the slip-up as an endangerment of the show’s credibility and credibility of guests.
Drama resurfaced on Hulu special
Behind the Table: A View Reunion revisited the Rosie incident. Behar admitted forgetting to keep the secret and defended her slip. However, ET host Bethenny Frankel later criticized Behar for mocking her own breast lift on the show, calling out her insensitivity about appearance changes.
Insider tension revealed
Another source told the National Enquirer that Walters’s reaction wasn’t just professional—it was personal. They said Barbara feared ongoing “blabbermouth” behavior would hurt the show. Yet Behar retained her spot after a private call and apology.
Public perception and legacy
Television historians say that this showdown reflects a broader struggle between candid hosts and tightly controlled broadcast narratives. Behar’s honesty resonated with fans, but Walters was determined to polish The View’s image.
Now, with the Hulu special’s release, insider tensions have reignited. The incident reminds audiences of the fine line daytime talk shows walk between spontaneity and control—drama that many say is far from over.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.