TMZ called it a “firing massacre” but in any case, Sherri Shepherd and Jenny McCarthy are leaving The View.
The online site’s sources report there was a meeting at ABC late Thursday afternoon where it was announced Shepherd and McCarthy were out. Also headed out the door–executive producer, Bill Geddie. Producer, Barbara Walters retired from on air duties last spring, but is returning to appear on the show Friday (taped on Wednesday). Maybe to make an announcement?
Remaining panelist, Whoopi Goldberg, is set to return next season.
TMZ’a sources say that there’s a chance Rosie O’Donnell could come back. Producers are also reportedly very interested in Laila Ali, Ross Mathews and Jesse Palmer.
Shepherd released a statement:
It’s been seven wonderful years on ‘The View’ and after careful consideration it is time for me to move on. I am extremely grateful to Barbara Walters and Bill Geddie for giving me the opportunity. I look forward to the business opportunities that lay ahead for me and I am incredibly grateful to my ‘View’ family and my fans for supporting me on this journey.
After, McCarthy tweeted:
If Sherri goes… I go too. #sisters
— Jenny McCarthy (@JennyMcCarthy) June 27, 2014
As if that’s why she’s leaving.
My View will be changing too. As will with many hard working folks. Thanks to everyone at the show for your dedication and an amazing year. — Jenny McCarthy (@JennyMcCarthy) June 27, 2014
Both are both expected to finish out the show’s current season, which ends the first week of August. Next week, the show is on hiatus through the July 4 holiday. It will return to live shows on July 7.
