Full Breakdown
Whoopi Goldberg Misses *The View* After Mount Etna Eruption Disrupts Travel
7/7/2026, 2:01:10 PM
Volcanic Disruption Forces Goldberg's Absence from July 6 Episode
On Monday, July 6, 2024, *The View* aired with only three regular co-hosts—Joy Behar, Sunny Hostin, and Alyssa Farah Griffin—after lead co-host Whoopi Goldberg was stranded in Sicily. A sudden eruption of Mount Etna, one of Italy’s most active volcanoes, forced the closure of all island airports, preventing Goldberg’s return to the United States. The production filled the vacant seat with comedian Michelle Buteau, originally a guest, who stepped in as a temporary co-host.
Recent Co-Host Absences Provide Context
Regular co-hosts Sara Haines and Ana Navarro also missed the July 6 taping. Haines cited storm damage, while Navarro reported a delay in Miami after a long airport wait. Their simultaneous absences left the show with a reduced panel, underscoring the impact of travel disruptions on the lineup.
Timeline of Events on July 6
Early morning: Mount Etna erupts, prompting island-wide airport shutdowns. Mid-morning: Goldberg records a video explaining the situation and shares it with the show. 6 a.m. ET: Buteau is roused from sleep to join the live broadcast as a special guest. 8 p.m. ET: *The View* airs with three regular co-hosts and Buteau as a guest-turned-host. After the show, Navarro posts an Instagram apology for her upcoming absence.
Official Statements & Responses
Goldberg’s video explained that she was unable to leave Sicily because the eruption caused all local airports to shut down, and she said she would return as soon as possible. Joy Behar introduced Buteau, noting that she had been awakened early in the morning to fill the vacant seat. Buteau expressed enthusiasm for the unexpected hosting opportunity, calling it a memorable experience. Navarro posted an Instagram apology, saying she was delayed in Miami after a long wait at the airport and encouraging viewers to enjoy the show.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The articles do not detail the eruption’s magnitude, the exact duration of airport closures, or any official aviation advisories. No specific itinerary for Goldberg’s return is provided, leaving the timeline of her re-appearance uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am in Sicily right now, and Mount Etna, who is one of our active volcanoes here in Italy, decided to go off today,” — Whoopi Goldberg
- “We have spent most of the day trying to get back to the United States and all of the airports are closed here. So I will be back as soon as I can.” — Whoopi Goldberg
- “Now, I’m a host! This is not how I thought it would happen, but I’m so glad it did,” — Michelle Buteau
- “So I’m sorry I won’t be there tomorrow. I’m sure the other ladies will have great, insightful things to say,” — Ana Navarro
What’s Next
Goldberg said she will return as soon as she can, and the show intends to resume its full five-person panel when travel permits.
