Tension is quietly building behind the scenes of the daytime talk show The View, as high-level executives from Disney and ABC News push for a shift in the show’s tone—one that moves away from heavy political commentary and toward a broader, more balanced mix of content.

Recent reports suggest that Disney CEO Bob Iger and ABC News President Almin Karamehmedovic have encouraged the co-hosts to scale back their pointed political critiques, especially those aimed at former President Donald Trump. The change in direction has sparked internal debate within the show’s creative and production teams.

According to insiders familiar with the production, executive producer Brian Teta addressed staff ahead of the presidential inauguration, suggesting the hosts “go easy” on Trump-related segments. The directive followed an episode where the panel was required to read four legal disclaimers while discussing allegations against members of the former president’s cabinet.

“The View” has long been known for its unfiltered discussions, passionate debates, and candid political takes. Its panel—comprised of Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, Sunny Hostin, Sara Haines, Alyssa Farah Griffin, and Ana Navarro—regularly engages in lively conversation on current events. The attempt to reshape that format, even slightly, has reportedly created noticeable friction.

A source familiar with the internal discussions noted that the directive wasn’t a demand to avoid political issues, but rather a suggestion to “broaden the show’s scope” and achieve a greater “balance of topics.” This includes expanding into entertainment and lifestyle segments, which often perform well with audiences.

Karamehmedovic recently met with the hosts and producers to further outline his vision. He reportedly urged the team to consider increasing the number of celebrity interviews and human-interest stories. While framed as a proposal rather than an order, the suggestion was not warmly received by all panelists.

One insider shared that some hosts, including Ana Navarro, expressed concern that moving away from political dialogue would not reflect the interests of their core viewership. “This is what our audience wants,” one co-host allegedly responded. “If we suddenly go quiet on politics, what message does that send?”

Despite leadership’s encouragement, the panel has largely continued with its original tone and approach, providing commentary on the Trump administration’s actions, global events, and broader political implications. The balance between management’s expectations and the co-hosts’ editorial instincts appears to be a delicate one.

This backstage tension comes at a time when Disney is navigating multiple challenges, including external pressure from Trump allies. In December, the company agreed to a $16 million settlement involving Trump’s presidential library and legal expenses following a defamation suit related to an ABC interview. The interview in question, conducted by George Stephanopoulos, reportedly mischaracterized a civil ruling against Trump.

Meanwhile, CBS and its parent company Paramount Global are facing their own legal challenges from the former president, who is suing for $20 billion over a 60 Minutes segment involving then–Vice President Kamala Harris. The ripple effects of that case have already reached the top of CBS News, with key leadership figures stepping down amid ongoing merger negotiations with Skydance Media.

Back at The View, producers and talent now face the difficult task of honoring the show’s outspoken legacy while adapting to new expectations from above. The show’s identity has long been defined by its willingness to tackle polarizing topics head-on. Altering that formula could alienate loyal viewers—but ignoring executive concerns could risk internal friction or more serious consequences.

As The View moves forward, it remains to be seen whether the panel will adjust its tone or continue on its current path. What is clear is that behind the laughter, applause, and daily debates, a quiet but meaningful tug-of-war is unfolding—one that could shape the show’s future for seasons to come.