Whoopi Goldberg is back in her role as co-host and moderator of The View after a two-week absence. The 70-year-old television personality made her return on December 1, following her guest appearance in the Italian soap opera, Un Posto Al Sole. She had initially announced her time away from the show on November 17, informing viewers that she would be departing for Italy to film her part.
Goldberg, who had expressed her excitement about the opportunity in June, noted that working on a soap opera in a different language presented a unique challenge. “I learned a lot because I’d never done a soap opera,” she shared, describing her filming experience in Naples as both interesting and enjoyable despite the continuous rain. Goldberg humorously mentioned that she sent her co-hosts videos as proof that she was indeed working during her time abroad.
Ana Navarro, another co-host on The View, chimed in with a light-hearted remark, contrasting the fictional soap opera setting with the current political climate in the U.S., calling it a welcome change. Goldberg previously announced her soap opera role through an Instagram video, expressing her eagerness to join the cast and her willingness to embrace the challenge, saying, “Ciao! See you on TV.”
On a podcast episode of The View’s Behind the Table, Goldberg discussed her role further, revealing that her interest in soap operas led her to seek new experiences. She acknowledged her limited familiarity with how soap operas operate in Italy and expressed her hope to document her experiences for her colleagues back home.
Her brief hiatus followed her on-air birthday celebration on November 13, which was also marked by Joy Behar’s absence due to an injury. The View continues to air weekdays at 11 a.m. ET on ABC, providing viewers with a lively discussion platform, now enlivened further by Goldberg’s return. Her enthusiasm for new horizons and ongoing work showcases a positive outlook and reinforces her cherished presence on the show.