ABC's "The View" is not looking too good. ABC execs are not happy with the show's ratings and are desperately trying to figure out a new game plan. A source close to production told the site that executives are considering holding a nationwide search to find new co-hosts, according to Radar Online.
In the fall, Sherri Shepherd and Jenny McCarthy both left and were replaced by Rosie O'Donnell, CNN's Nicolle Wallace and actress Rosie Perez. According to reports, the show has been struggling to stay afloat and "to boost ratings, there have been talks that 'The View' will bring back its nationwide search," Radar writes.
Back in 1999, the daytime talk show held a similar search and added journalist Lisa Ling to replace Debbie Matenopoulos. Ling left in 2002 to host "National Geographic Explorer" and was replaced by Elisabeth Hasselbeck in 2003. The "Survivor" alum left the show in 2013 to join Fox News Channel.
"It could be really good for the show," the source told Radar, "because it would really get the audience more involved."
The execs don't want to fire any of the current co-hosts but add to it, according to the site. Last month, rumors surfaced that producers of the show wanted to add a "cool down room" (aka "time-out room) for the ladies after Whoopi Goldberg and Rosie O'Donnell got into a nasty argument in front of the audience.
"Their dressing rooms are not close enough to the set in case of an emergency outburst," the source explained to the Daily News. "They are even saying they'll paint it white, and they joke it's the 'safe place' in the midst of the drama."
"Having a live audience can be sensory overload," the source added. "Rosie needs an area to tap into her inner peace, and the rest of the cast can use it for a quick unwind during a commercial break, rather than let feelings boil over on set."
