Abby Huntsman, known for her tenure as a co-host on The View from 2018 to 2020, is making a return to the show as a guest host from March 23 to March 27, 2026. This return comes after a significant hiatus during which Huntsman left the program citing a “toxic environment” and a misalignment with her values.
Huntsman, the daughter of former Utah Governor Jon Huntsman Jr., transitioned from The View to become a senior advisor for her father’s gubernatorial campaign in 2020, a campaign that ultimately did not succeed. During her time on the show, she expressed feelings of being “trapped” by the producers’ expectations to generate newsworthy moments, which she felt compromised her integrity.
In an earlier statement, Huntsman remarked, “I knew the show did not reflect my values. When I say that, I mean rewarding people for bad behavior.” She elaborated on the culture of the show, stating, “Everything was about a soundbite, and everything was, ‘Who could say the most bombastic thing in the moment?’ and that’s not me.” These comments highlight her discomfort with the show’s focus on sensationalism.
After leaving The View, Huntsman launched her podcast, “I Wish Somebody Told Me,” in October 2021, which allowed her to share her perspectives in a more personal format. Reflecting on her departure, she stated, “The decision that I made was probably the best decision I could have made for my life, for my mental health, for my happiness, for my family.” This sentiment underscores the importance of mental well-being in her career choices.
Huntsman’s previous stint on The View was marked by a five-person panel that received a Daytime Emmy Award nomination for hosting in 2019. Her return as a guest host is anticipated by fans and may provide a fresh perspective on the current dynamics of the show.
As Huntsman prepares for her return, the current state of The View and its panelists, including Alyssa Farah Griffin and Meghan McCain, remains to be seen. The show’s evolution since her departure may influence her approach during her guest hosting stint.
This sequence of events is significant not only for Huntsman but also for the audience of The View, as it reflects ongoing discussions about workplace culture in media and the balance between personal values and professional expectations.
