ABC/Lou RoccoThe View cohosts are starting out on a good note: Group hugs! Everybody is all smiles the first official photo of the new ladies of The View.
Whoopi Goldberg is the only returning host from season 17. The new faces for season 18 include Rosie O'Donnell—who previously served as moderator on the show for one season in 2006—plus Rosie Perez and Nicolle Wallace.
"These are powerful and accomplished women from different walks of life who have had amazing personal and professional experiences. Each brings incredible perspective and information to the table," Bill Wolff, executive producer, said in a statement when the new hosts were announced. "This mix of smart, vibrant and energetic women is unlike anything else on daytime television."
Barbara Walters retired from The View in May and Sherri Shepherd and Jenny McCarthy's exits were announced shortly after.
"I think it's going to be must-see TV," O'Donnell told Variety of her daytime TV comeback. "My goal is to come in peace. And the contrast between what the show will be and what it was is going to be glaring."
Look for the new View to be more topical and less celebrity driven, O'Donnell said.
Along with the new hosts, The View will have a new look. The show will undergo a makeover, featuring a new logo and new studio. Along with the new look, there's a new producer: Wolff of The Rachel Maddow Show.
The View returns Sept. 15 at 11 a.m. on ABC.