It’s one of the most recognizable tables in television history — the half-circle where laughter, tears, and arguments have unfolded for nearly three decades. The View first aired in 1997, the brainchild of the legendary Barbara Walters, who wanted to create a talk show where “women of different backgrounds, generations, and opinions” could openly debate the issues shaping the world.

What began as an experiment quickly became a daytime institution — and a cultural lightning rod. Now, as the show celebrates 28 years on air, a look back at photos of the co-hosts through the years tells a story of ambition, transformation, and the ever-changing face of American television.

The Visionary Years: Barbara Walters and the Birth of The View

In 1997, Barbara Walters sat alongside Meredith Vieira, Star Jones, Debbie Matenopoulos, and Joy Behar. Together, they created a chemistry that felt real — imperfect, emotional, and refreshingly honest. Walters, already an icon, was both a mentor and a referee. Her vision was simple yet revolutionary: women could debate politics, relationships, and pop culture — live, unfiltered, and unapologetically.

Early photos show the team laughing between takes, their connection palpable. Yet behind the smiles were moments of friction — a sign of the passion that would define The View for decades.

The Evolving Table: New Voices, New Sparks

As years passed, The View became a revolving door of personalities — each bringing new energy and controversy. Rosie O’Donnell’s tenure in the mid-2000s sparked some of the most infamous on-air clashes in daytime history, particularly her explosive debates with Elisabeth Hasselbeck.

When Whoopi Goldberg joined in 2007, she brought balance — a calm presence amid chaos, yet never afraid to speak her mind. Joy Behar, the only original co-host to remain through most of the show’s lifespan, became the comedic heartbeat of the panel — her sharp wit grounding even the tensest discussions.

Through the years, hosts like Sherri Shepherd, Raven-Symoné, Rosie Perez, and Candace Cameron Bure each left their marks. Some fit seamlessly. Others clashed with the show’s rhythm — but all became part of the legacy.

The New Era: Politics, Power, and Pop Culture

As the world shifted, so did The View. The Trump era transformed the show into a political battlefield, and newer faces like Meghan McCain and Sunny Hostin brought a mix of intellect, passion, and raw emotion. Meghan’s outspoken conservative stance often ignited viral debates with Joy and Whoopi, redefining The View for a new generation.

Photos from this era show an intensity rarely seen on daytime TV — furrowed brows, heated gestures, and moments of laughter after the storm. It was real. And that realness kept viewers hooked.

Meanwhile, Sunny Hostin, a former federal prosecutor, offered calm analysis and conviction, while Sara Haines’ warmth and empathy helped soften the edges. Alyssa Farah Griffin and Ana Navarro now continue the legacy, representing new perspectives in a changing cultural landscape.

Behind the Glamour: The Women, the Work, the Weight

What the photos don’t always show is the emotional weight that comes with The View. Many former hosts have spoken about the toll of being in the public eye, under constant scrutiny. Elisabeth Hasselbeck once said that debates left her “shaken for days,” while Rosie O’Donnell described the experience as “both thrilling and traumatic.”

And yet, they all acknowledge the same truth: The View gave them a platform like no other.

Barbara Walters’ dream didn’t just create a talk show — it created a mirror for America. Each host reflected a different voice, and together they captured the pulse of the nation, one argument at a time.

The Legacy Continues

Today, The View remains one of the longest-running talk shows in TV history, with 31 Daytime Emmy Awards and countless unforgettable moments. Its hosts continue to shape public conversation — whether it’s Whoopi’s measured wisdom, Joy’s unapologetic humor, or Sunny’s sharp insight.

The newly released photos of The View co-hosts over the years remind us how far they’ve come — not just as media figures, but as women navigating a landscape they helped define. From the bright-eyed debut of Debbie Matenopoulos to the seasoned grace of Goldberg and Behar, every image captures evolution, resilience, and the courage to keep showing up — even when the table turns hostile.

In a world where voices are often silenced or dismissed, The View remains defiant proof that difference doesn’t divide — it defines.

As Barbara Walters once said: “The View was meant to be a conversation — not just between us, but with the world.”

And 28 years later, the world is still listening.