Whoopi Goldberg to Join 'The View' as New Co-Host

Oscar-winning film, stage and TV star Whoopi Goldberg (film: Ghost, The Color Purple; Broadway: Ma Rainey's Black Bottom) has been confirmed as the new moderator of ABC's "The View," according to ABC News.

Goldberg, who replaces Rosie O'Donnell, will join the show after Labor Day. "I have known Whoopi for years. She is brilliant, funny and irrepressible, and is an enormously popular and talented star. We are delighted that she is going to join the program as our moderator. This is going to be a great new chapter for 'The View,'" said Barbara Walters, the legendary journalists who hosts "The View" alongside Joy Behar and Elizabeth Hasselbeck. 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.

"This is a big old thrill for me.  The thing I'm looking forward to the most are the hot topics and everyone trying to get in at the same time," said Goldberg, who had previously appeared as guest panelist on "The View."

"With her household-name status and vocal criticisms of President Bush, Goldberg will likely give 'The View' the star power and sound bites formerly supplied by O'Donnell. On today's show, she hinted that like her predecessor, she won't shy away from contentious topics, regardless of whether or not her co-hosts share her opinion," states the article.

Another "The View" host seat remains to be filled, although no replacement for Star Jones (who was let go from the show last year) has been announced.  Sherri Shepherd, Kathy Griffin and Joan Rivers are among the women who have been rumored as possibilities.

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

Photo by Linda Lenzi