The View's Original Cast: Unpacking The Trailblazing Women

Mr. Marcelo Bashirian 24 Jun 2025

Since its inception, "The View" has been a cornerstone of daytime television, offering a unique platform for diverse voices to discuss everything from politics to pop culture. Created by broadcast journalist Barbara Walters, this American talk show has aired on ABC as part of the network's daytime programming block since August 11, 1997. As of 2025, the show is celebrating its 28th season, a testament to its enduring appeal and its ability to adapt with the times. However, the foundation of this iconic program was laid by a pioneering group of women who dared to be heard: the original cast of The View.

The concept was revolutionary: five women with very different outlooks on politics, Hollywood and its stars, and current events, coming together to discuss these and other divisive topics of the day. This dynamic, often unpredictable, yet always engaging format captivated audiences from day one. Understanding the impact of "The View" requires a deep dive into its origins, particularly the groundbreaking contributions of its inaugural panel. This article explores the vision behind the show and introduces the remarkable women who formed the original cast, setting the stage for decades of compelling conversation.

The Visionary Behind The View: Barbara Walters
The Genesis of a Daytime Phenomenon
- The Original Concept and Its Impact
Meet the Trailblazers: The Original Cast of The View
The Dynamic That Defined Early The View
Legacy and Evolution: Beyond the Original Cast
Where Are They Now? The Enduring Influence
The View Today: A Continuing Legacy
Conclusion

The Visionary Behind The View: Barbara Walters

At the heart of "The View"'s enduring success is the unparalleled vision of broadcast journalist Barbara Walters. A true pioneer in television news, Walters broke countless barriers throughout her career, becoming the first female co-anchor of a network evening news program and a celebrated interviewer. Her experience in eliciting candid conversations from the world's most powerful figures informed her desire to create a show where women could openly discuss the issues of the day, reflecting a diverse range of opinions. Walters envisioned a forum where different generations and backgrounds could converge, providing a fresh perspective on current events, pop culture, and the challenges of modern life. Her goal was to create a show where women could be heard, a concept that was both simple and profoundly revolutionary for its time. This dedication to fostering open dialogue and diverse viewpoints remains a core tenet of "The View" to this day.

The Genesis of a Daytime Phenomenon

"The View" officially premiered on August 11, 1997, marking a significant moment in daytime television history. Born from Barbara Walters' desire to create a multi-generational panel, the show aimed to provide a space where women could discuss "hot topics" without the constraints often found in traditional news or entertainment programs. The live broadcast format, five days a week, meant that discussions were immediate, raw, and often unscripted, adding to its appeal. This immediacy allowed "The View" to become a true reflection of the cultural zeitgeist, tackling everything from political scandals to celebrity gossip with equal vigor.

The Original Concept and Its Impact

The original concept of "The View" was groundbreaking: a panel of women of different ages, backgrounds, and political leanings, engaging in lively debate. This format immediately set it apart from other talk shows. It wasn't about celebrity interviews alone, though they were a part of it. It was about the conversations, the disagreements, the shared laughter, and the genuine reactions of the hosts to the world around them. This approach resonated deeply with viewers, who saw their own diverse perspectives reflected on screen. The show quickly became a place to be heard, not just for the hosts but for the audience, who often felt a part of the conversation. The initial success of the show proved that there was a significant appetite for intelligent, opinionated female voices in daytime television, paving the way for similar programs and cementing "The View"'s place in pop culture history.

Meet the Trailblazers: The Original Cast of The View

The success of "The View" in its formative years was undeniably shaped by the chemistry and individual strengths of its inaugural panel. The first episode of "The View" aired on August 11, 1997, featuring Meredith Vieira, Joy Behar, Star Jones, and Debbie Matenopoulos, alongside creator Barbara Walters, who often joined the panel. These women, each bringing a distinct personality and professional background to the table, formed the bedrock of what would become a cultural phenomenon. Their initial dynamic set the tone for the show's signature blend of informed discussion, passionate debate, and unexpected humor. Let's delve into the remarkable careers of these pioneering women who comprised the original cast of The View.

Meredith Vieira: The Moderating Maestro

Meredith Vieira served as the moderator of "The View" for nine seasons, from 1997 to 2006, making her one of the longest-serving members of the original crew of The View hosts. Known for her calm demeanor, sharp wit, and ability to guide complex discussions with grace, Vieira was the steady hand that often navigated the panel's most heated debates. Her journalistic background, having worked on "60 Minutes" and "Dateline NBC," provided a strong foundation for her role, allowing her to ask incisive questions and maintain a balanced perspective. Vieira's departure in 2006 to co-host "Today" was a significant moment for the show, underscoring her widespread appeal and versatility as a broadcaster.

Biography: Meredith Vieira

Role on The View	Moderator
Tenure on The View	1997-2006 (9 seasons)
Key Strengths	Calm demeanor, sharp wit, skilled moderator, journalistic integrity
Notable Career Highlights (Pre/Post-View)	"60 Minutes," "Dateline NBC," Co-host of "Today," Host of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire"

Joy Behar: The Unfiltered Voice of Comedy

Joy Behar is among today's leading comic talents, and her presence on "The View" has been one of the show's most enduring and beloved elements. Whether performing stand-up comedy or interviewing politicians and artists, she is an original voice and leading woman on both stage and screen. Behar's role on "The View" has been characterized by her quick wit, irreverent humor, and often politically charged commentary. She is known for her unfiltered opinions and ability to inject levity into even the most serious discussions. As an original cast member, Behar's longevity on the show (she has returned after a brief hiatus) speaks volumes about her indispensable contribution to its dynamic. Her ability to deliver sharp, often hilarious, one-liners while also engaging in thoughtful debate has made her a fan favorite and a crucial part of the show's identity.

Biography: Joy Behar

Role on The View	Co-host, Comedian
Tenure on The View	1997-2013; 2015-Present (Original cast member, returned after hiatus)
Key Strengths	Sharp wit, comedic timing, unfiltered opinions, political commentary
Notable Career Highlights (Pre/Post-View)	Stand-up comedian, Host of "The Joy Behar Show" (HLN), various acting roles

Star Jones: The Legal Eagle with Star Power

Star Jones brought a unique blend of legal expertise and celebrity insight to the original cast of The View. A former prosecutor and legal correspondent, Jones was known for her articulate arguments and strong opinions, particularly on matters of law and social justice. Her background as a legal analyst for networks like NBC and Court TV provided a serious counterpoint to some of the lighter discussions, often grounding the panel's debates in factual and legal realities. Jones's larger-than-life personality and willingness to share personal experiences also contributed significantly to the show's appeal, making her a memorable figure during her tenure. Her presence ensured that legal and ethical dimensions were always considered in the "hot topics" discussions.

Biography: Star Jones

Role on The View	Co-host, Legal Analyst
Tenure on The View	1997-2006
Key Strengths	Legal expertise, articulate argumentation, strong opinions, celebrity insight
Notable Career Highlights (Pre/Post-View)	Former prosecutor, Legal correspondent (NBC, Court TV), Author, TV personality

Debbie Matenopoulos: The Youthful Perspective

Debbie Matenopoulos was the youngest member of the original cast of The View, bringing a vital youthful perspective to the panel. Her role was to represent the voice of the younger generation, offering insights into pop culture, trends, and the experiences of a millennial navigating the world. While her tenure was shorter than some of her co-hosts, Matenopoulos played a crucial role in establishing the multi-generational dynamic that Barbara Walters envisioned. Her fresh outlook and enthusiasm provided a contrast to the more seasoned opinions of her co-panelists, contributing to the show's broad appeal across different age demographics. Her presence underscored the show's commitment to reflecting a wide array of viewpoints, ensuring that "The View" remained relevant to viewers of all ages.

Biography: Debbie Matenopoulos

Role on The View	Co-host, Youth Representative
Tenure on The View	1997-1998
Key Strengths	Youthful perspective, pop culture knowledge, enthusiasm
Notable Career Highlights (Pre/Post-View)	E! News, The Best Damn Sports Show Period, Home & Family (Hallmark Channel)

The Dynamic That Defined Early The View

The magic of the early "The View" lay in the carefully curated, yet seemingly organic, dynamic among its original cast members. Barbara Walters' genius was in assembling five women who, despite their diverse backgrounds and often opposing viewpoints, could engage in respectful, albeit spirited, debate. Meredith Vieira’s moderating skills provided a steady anchor, allowing the often-fiery exchanges between Joy Behar’s comedic cynicism, Star Jones’s legal gravitas, and Debbie Matenopoulos’s youthful exuberance to unfold without devolving into chaos. This blend of personalities created a compelling television experience that was both entertaining and thought-provoking. The show became a microcosm of real-life conversations, where differing opinions were not only tolerated but celebrated, making it a truly unique entry in the landscape of daytime television. The ability of the original cast of The View to balance serious discussions with moments of levity and genuine human connection was a key factor in its immediate success and lasting legacy.

Legacy and Evolution: Beyond the Original Cast

Since it first premiered, the cast of "The View" has seen a wide variety of hosts come and go, a natural evolution for a show that has been on air for nearly three decades. The departure of original cast members like Meredith Vieira and Star Jones, and later additions and departures like Elisabeth Hasselbeck joining the cast after Lisa Ling's departure, marked new eras for the show. Each new co-host brought a fresh perspective and personality, ensuring that the panel's dynamic remained vibrant and relevant to changing cultural landscapes. This constant refreshment of the panel, while maintaining core elements of its original format, has been crucial to "The View"'s longevity. The show has successfully navigated changes in media consumption, political climates, and social norms, always finding new ways to engage its audience. The legacy of the original cast of The View, however, remains indelible, as they set the template for the spirited discussions and diverse viewpoints that continue to define the program.

Where Are They Now? The Enduring Influence

The members of the original cast of "The View" have continued to make significant contributions to media and public life long after their initial tenures on the show. Meredith Vieira went on to achieve further national recognition as the co-host of NBC's "Today" show and as the host of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," solidifying her status as one of television's most respected journalists and personalities. Star Jones continued her work as a legal analyst, author, and television personality, advocating for health and wellness. Debbie Matenopoulos has remained a fixture in entertainment news and lifestyle programming, appearing on various shows and channels. Joy Behar, of course, has had an extraordinary journey, returning to "The View" after a brief absence in 2013-2014, and remains a central figure on the panel today. In July 2022, she reflected on her brief absence from the talk show, telling Time magazine about her enduring connection to the program. These women exemplify the lasting impact of "The View" as a launchpad for successful careers and as a platform for influential voices. Their careers post-"The View" demonstrate the show's ability to foster talent and provide a significant platform for public figures.

The View Today: A Continuing Legacy

Today, "The View" continues to thrive, with a panel that includes Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, Sunny Hostin, and Ana Navarro (often referred to as Virginia Hamilton in some contexts, though Ana Navarro is the current consistent co-host alongside the others). When "The View" returns with new episodes on Tuesday, September 3, Whoopi Goldberg will set a new record for her tenure, further cementing her place in the show's history. The show maintains its core mission: to feature five women with very different outlooks on politics, Hollywood and its stars, and current events, discussing these and other divisive topics of the day. It remains a place where to watch 'The View' is to be heard, with live broadcasts five days a week, continuing the tradition established by the original cast. The official "The View" online at ABC.com offers exclusive videos, blogs, photos, cast bios, free episodes and more, demonstrating the show's adaptation to the digital age while staying true to its foundational principles. The enduring popularity of "The View" is a testament to the pioneering spirit of Barbara Walters and the groundbreaking work of the original cast of The View, who created a format that continues to resonate with audiences across generations.

Conclusion

"The View" has evolved significantly since its debut in 1997, yet its fundamental appeal remains rooted in the groundbreaking vision of Barbara Walters and the dynamic chemistry of its original cast. Meredith Vieira, Joy Behar, Star Jones, and Debbie Matenopoulos, alongside Walters herself, forged a new path in daytime television, proving that intelligent, diverse, and often passionate discussions among women could captivate a national audience. Their contributions laid the essential groundwork for a show that, as of 2025, is celebrating its 28th season, continuing to serve as a vital forum for current events and cultural commentary. The enduring legacy of the original cast of The View is evident in every lively debate and every shared moment on the show today. Their trailblazing efforts ensured that "The View" would become more than just a talk show; it became a cultural institution.

What are your fondest memories of the original cast of "The View"? Share your thoughts and favorite moments in the comments below! If you enjoyed this deep dive into the history of "The View," be sure to explore other articles on our site about iconic television shows and their enduring impact.

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The View's Original Cast: Unpacking The Trailblazing Women

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