Whoopi Goldberg briefly stepped away from her hosting duties on The View due to illness but made a triumphant return on the episode airing Thursday, May 15. The Academy Award-winning actress has been a mainstay on the show since stepping in for Rosie O’Donnell back in 2007, becoming a significant voice among the lively panel, which includes Joy Behar, Sara Haines, Sunny Hostin, Alyssa Farah Griffin, and Ana Navarro.
After appearing on the episodes from May 12 to May 13, Whoopi missed the May 14 broadcast due to her health issues. Despite looking well during the earlier episodes, her absence was notable, particularly as TV Insider pointed out that Whoopi is the show’s longest-serving cohost, marking her impressive tenure.
Joy Behar Addresses Whoopi’s Absence
Whoopi Reportedly Had “A Little Bug”
During the May 14 episode, Joy Behar informed viewers about Whoopi’s absence at the start of the show. She reassured the audience that Whoopi was unwell but expected to return soon. Known for her commitment to the program, Whoopi typically does not miss tapings, aside from her usual absence on Fridays.
“Whoopi’s got some kind of little bug. Not Covid, though—she was wearing a mask yesterday,” Joy stated. “She wasn’t feeling well, but she’s coming back tomorrow—supposedly, if she feels better.” This comment was a reference to Whoopi’s previous Covid diagnosis that had sidelined her last summer. TV Insider also recalled moments when Whoopi had missed episodes due to other engagements or due to illness earlier this year.
Whoopi Makes a Swift Comeback
Whoopi Caught a Cold
On May 15, Whoopi returned to her usual spot and took a moment to clarify her recent absence, alleviating any concerns among her fans. With her signature humor, she remarked that her cold was making her more subdued than usual.
“So before I go any further, I have to explain what’s happening. I have a cold, and it’s kicking my behind. Yes, it is. And it’s not making me cranky, but it’s making me quiet. So I’m not funny today.”
Her cohosts showed their support, with Sara commenting, “Oh, you’re funny… very quietly so,”and Joy encouraging, “That’s right, take it easy.”With her spirits lifted, Whoopi quickly re-engaged with the panel’s discussions, even weighing in on significant news topics like the Diddy trial. Notably, as is her tradition, Whoopi is expected to be absent from the show on Friday, May 16.
The View broadcasts daily on ABC and is also available for streaming on Disney+.
For more information, check out TV Insider.