Whoopi Goldberg to Become a Co-Host of 'The View?'

Oscar-winning film, stage and TV star Whoopi Goldberg (film: Ghost, The Color Purple; Broadway: Ma Rainey's Black Bottom) is currently the top candidate to replace Rosie O'Donnell on ABC's "The View," according to Variety.

Goldberg is reportedly "in final negotiations" with the network to join the morning chat show, although ABC Daytime president Brian Frons stated "We have no closed deal."  Frons spoke highly of Goldberg's recent appearance as a guest host on "The View."  ABC is also, according to the industry paper, in talks with standup comic Sherri Shepherd ("Less Than Perfect") to join the show as well (host Star Jones was fired from the show last year, and a replacement for her has yet to be found).  Sources said an announcement on both signings could come as soon as next week.

"The View" currently features Joy Behar, Barbara Walters and Elizabeth Hasselbeck as its hosts.  O'Donnell, who will next return to the stage in the Encores! production of No, No, Nanette, departed from "The View" in May after a contentious, high-profile year that boosted ratings for the show.

Visit www.abc.com for more on "The View."

Photo by Linda Lenzi