Ex-View Host Cites 'Toxic Environment' for Departure

Abby Huntsman, who previously co-hosted The View from 2018 to 2020, is set to return to the program as a guest host this week. Huntsman's departure in 2020 was initially attributed to her father's gubernatorial campaign, but she later disclosed on her podcast that the show fostered a "toxic environment."

Huntsman stated that The View's executives were "all about money and the tabloids" and that she witnessed behavior that was "not okay." She also revealed that a producer asked her to read a statement on air denying reports of a toxic workplace, which she refused. She later received a text stating, "That was a mistake."

Adding to the complexity of her departure, reports circulated regarding tension between Huntsman and fellow conservative co-host Meghan McCain. Sources cited in a CNN Business article described a "soured relationship" and alluded to Huntsman being tired of McCain's perceived slights. An ABC spokesperson, however, denied the toxic workplace claims at the time.

Prior to her tenure on The View, Huntsman also worked as a host for MSNBC and Fox News. She is joining other temporary co-hosts filling in for Alyssa Farah Griffin, who is on maternity leave. Other guest hosts include Savannah Chrisley and Elisabeth Hasselbeck.