During a recent episode of ABC’s The View, Whoopi Goldberg and her co-hosts expressed strong disapproval of Anna Delvey, the convicted con artist, competing on the upcoming season of Dancing With The Stars. The panel highlighted concerns over Delvey’s participation, which was seen as inconsiderate given her past crimes.
The discussion included a clip featuring Delvey and her dance partner, Ezra Sosa, joking about decorating her ankle monitor—an accessory she is required to wear while in home confinement after being released from prison. Delvey claims to have permission from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to participate in the show. Goldberg voiced her frustration by reflecting on the struggles of families affected by ICE, asking, “Is there a two-tiered system with ICE?”
Delvey, who was convicted in 2019 for impersonating a wealthy German heiress and defrauding numerous individuals and institutions, spent two years in prison before being taken into custody by ICE for overstaying her visa. After an appeal, she is now under home confinement while wearing an ankle monitor.
In the video clip, Delvey lightheartedly remarked, “What’s the worst that can happen? They’re going to arrest me for dancing badly?” This drew a critical response from co-host Sunny Hostin, who pointed out that Delvey’s history of fraud and subsequent legal troubles should not lead to opportunities like appearing on a reality show. Hostin noted that Delvey only experienced a brief prison sentence followed by an ankle monitor as a consequence for her actions.
Hostin drew a parallel between Delvey’s situation and that of Gypsy-Rose Blanchard, who became a reality star after serving time for her mother’s murder. Co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin disagreed, stating that Blanchard had taken responsibility for her actions, unlike Delvey, who still has outstanding debts.
Joy Behar added a comment on the perceived advantages Delvey enjoys, suggesting her attractiveness might play a role in her opportunities. Goldberg echoed this sentiment, highlighting that many people at the border and elsewhere are struggling, and questioned the fairness of Delvey’s situation. Goldberg concluded by noting the issue’s broader implications for those seeking to improve their lives.