Michelle Collins Calls ‘The View’ a ‘Dangerous Show’

Collins, who first appeared as a guest co-host before joining the show full time for its 19th season, told podcast co-host Trixie Mattel that she could not watch old clips of herself on the program. Mattel said she usually encountered only the show’s more chaotic moments. Collins replied that it was “genuinely begging people to ruin your lives.”

She said she had no business serving as a panelist discussing politics, and recalled being amused to share the show with former child stars including Candace Cameron Bure and Raven-Symoné. Collins left after one season. Other former hosts have also spoken critically about their experiences.

Kathy Griffin alleged in June that creator Barbara Walters struck her under the broadcast desk during disagreements, leaving her with bruises. The claims were reported by The Blast. Griffin also joked about the alleged incidents to acquaintances. Jenny McCarthy, meanwhile, said on “The Katie Miller” podcast that she would not return for a reunion, saying, “over my dead body would I ever set foot in that place?” She described her original role as offering light commentary on “The Bachelor” and “Dancing with the Stars,” and said she panicked when told the show would become more political.

Sherri Shepherd backed McCarthy’s account, recalling that McCarthy came to her dressing room in alarm when the format shifted. Shepherd said producers tried to make McCarthy appear more knowledgeable about politics by having her wear glasses. Raven-Symoné took a different approach: she returned for two days in October during the show’s 30th-season anniversary celebrations, joining the panel and appearing on the companion podcast “Behind The Table” with her wife, Miranda Maday.