Full Breakdown
Joy Behar's Absence from The View During Carrie Underwood Interview Sparks Controversy
3/25/2026, 4:12:43 PM
Core Event: Behar's Departure Amid Underwood Interview
Joy Behar, a cohost of ABC's talk show *The View*, temporarily left the table during a high-profile interview with Carrie Underwood, an American Idol winner, on January 20, 2025. This incident follows Behar's previous criticism of Underwood's decision to perform at Donald Trump's inauguration, which has led to public backlash and social media disputes.
Background & Context: The Inauguration Performance
Carrie Underwood performed at the inauguration ceremony for Donald Trump at the United States Capitol on January 20, 2025. Behar publicly opposed Underwood's participation in the event, expressing her disapproval on *The View*. This criticism ignited a response from former cohost Elisabeth Hasselbeck, who defended Underwood and condemned Behar's remarks.
Key Figures & Groups
- Joy Behar: Current cohost of *The View*, known for her outspoken opinions.
- Carrie Underwood: Country music star and American Idol winner, who performed at Trump's inauguration.
- Elisabeth Hasselbeck: Former cohost of *The View*, who criticized Behar's comments about Underwood.
Official Statements & Responses
Following Behar's absence during the interview, moderator Whoopi Goldberg clarified that her departure was a "production decision" to accommodate the three interview subjects at the table. Despite the controversy, Behar returned to her seat at the end of the broadcast, and it was announced that she would be featured on the program's companion podcast, *Behind the Table*.
Criticism & Opposition
Elisabeth Hasselbeck's criticism of Behar's remarks was significant. She took to social media to defend Underwood, stating, "Joy — @carrieunderwood is an INCREDIBLE WOMAN. You could learn from her strength." Hasselbeck's comments highlighted the divide between the two former cohosts, although Behar did not label Underwood as "un-American," a term that Hasselbeck used in her rebuttal.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Behar's criticism of Underwood was noted, it is important to clarify that Behar did not explicitly use the term "un-American" in her comments. This discrepancy has been a point of contention in the ongoing dialogue surrounding the incident.
Verbatim Quotes
- “That @TheView @JoyVBehar needs to simmer down off my friend,” — Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Former *The View* Cohost
What's Next: Future Discussions
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how Behar and Hasselbeck will address their differences, especially with Hasselbeck's return to *The View* amid ongoing discussions about political performances and celebrity involvement in political events.
