The View is part of my morning routine. I work late and sleep late, so the show usually serves as background for sorting through my e-mail. Last season, Rosie O’Donnell made me pay closer attention than I had in the past, not just because of the funny or controversial things she said, but because she talked about her spouse and family in the same way the straight women did. Every day, Rosie let America know that lesbian couples were just like anyone else. Whatever else you think about Rosie, give her props for that. I was sorry to see her go.

But I was thrilled when Whoopi Goldberg was announced as Rosie’s replacement. I love and admire Whoopi and knew she would be liberal and gay-friendly in her opinions in, perhaps, a less edgy way than Rosie. Plus, The View desperately needed a woman of color in the mix.

After a few days — and a bit of controversy when she suggested that Michael Vick might have been brought up to think dogfighting was OK — Whoopi settled in and seemed comfortable in first chair. In fact, she is the perfect moderator. She is strong but gracious, able to keep the discussion moving and prevent verbal brawls, and adept at politely but firmly pausing the chatter for commercial breaks.

Yawn. … continue reading

On today's episode of The View, Barbara Walters announced that Whoopi Goldberg now has a permanent seat in the moderator's chair.

The news broke in unverified form last week, but ABC declined to comment. On today's show, Whoopi noted that people — including her own mother — have been hassling her for the final word. She called her new job "a big ol' thrill" but admitted she hasn't thought about her wardrobe "one iota":

"I know you wouldn't want me to pretend to be anything but me."

The other cohosts agreed that they want her just as she is. Walters even urged Whoopi to be "a little edgy," but Whoopi said, "I've always been nice," and promised to be careful not to use the words she uses "every day." … continue reading