Inside ‘The View’: Backstage Battles, ABC Layoffs, and Pressure to Go Easy on Trump

ABC’s The View is known for its fiery debates and no-holds-barred commentary. But behind the scenes, tensions are running high as internal politics, job cuts, and a new directive on Trump coverage put the show under serious pressure.

ABC Pressures Hosts to Dial It Back on Trump

Sources close to the production say executive producer Brian Teta has urged co-hosts to soften their criticism of Donald Trump, especially in the weeks leading up to his upcoming inauguration. The request marks a notable shift for a show that has been openly critical of the former—and now returning—president.

Despite The View’s continued success with viewers (averaging 2.6 million over the past month), there’s a feeling among the cast and crew that something has changed.

Job Cuts Hit Longtime Crew Members

Morale took another hit when at least nine employees were laid off, including veteran producers Jamie Hammer and Audrey Jones. The move was reportedly part of wider cost-cutting by parent company Disney, which has been restructuring across several divisions since October.

“There’s a sense of unease,” said one insider. “People feel like they’re waiting for the next round of firings.”

Studio Turf War: The View vs. Tamron Hall

The show’s recent move to ABC’s new Hudson Square studios in Manhattan hasn’t gone smoothly either. The View now shares its space with The Tamron Hall Show, and insiders say that has led to growing friction over dressing rooms, guest prep, and taping schedules.

“Tamron Hall thinks she’s Oprah,” one source said. “She makes big demands, but The View still pulls the numbers.”

While some say tensions have flared, others behind the scenes insist the two teams are trying to keep things professional despite the logistical headaches.

Staff Frustrations: “It’s a Step Down”

Relocation woes extend beyond talent. ABC staff have also expressed frustration with the new downtown offices, describing them as cramped, under-equipped, and inconvenient due to heavy traffic near the Holland Tunnel.

The Hudson Square building may be shiny and new, but for longtime ABC employees, it’s a downgrade in comfort. Complaints include cramped workspaces, a lack of private offices, and inconvenient commutes thanks to traffic near the Holland Tunnel.

“It’s basic at best,” said one staffer. “There aren’t enough desks, and even execs are sharing space.”

ABC pushed back, calling the building “gorgeous” and saying there’s ample room for everyone.

Hosts Rethink Trump Talk

Co-hosts are now second-guessing how outspoken they can be. Just last month, Sara Haines admitted on air that she often feels disconnected from the show’s audience over her lack of support for Trump.

Meanwhile, Alyssa Farah Griffin—a former Trump aide who now supports Kamala Harris—has publicly clashed with Whoopi Goldberg on whether Democrats need to be more open to engaging conservative perspectives.

“Democrats have to be willing to go to uncomfortable spaces,” Griffin said, even noting she still agrees with some Trump-era policies.

The Future of The View

With staff cuts, strategic shifts, and rising tension behind the scenes, The View is entering a new chapter. Whether that means a toned-down political stance or further changes to the cast or crew, insiders say this season feels different.

One thing’s for sure: the real drama isn’t always in front of the cameras.