'The View' co-hosts asked to back off from criticizing Carrie Underwood by ABC execs: Report

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Co-hosts of the ABC daytime talk show 'The View' have been told not to criticize country singing star Carrie Underwood by the network executives, Radar Online reported on Thursday, January 16.

The 41-year-old singer became the subject of discussion on the Tuesday, January 14 episode, after she announced her upcoming performance at the inauguration ceremony of President-elect Donald Trump.

While co-hosts Whoopi Goldberg, Sunny Hostin, and Alyssa Farah Griffin respected her decision despite being vocal opponents of Trump, Joy Behar showed no restraint stating, "She (Underwood) says, 'I love our country'. How do you love your country and support and normalize somebody who’s a convicted felon and, in my opinion, wants to destroy the country?"

"I would not be the person to say don’t do it, because I believe in free speech. I personally would not do it, but no one’s asked me. That’s another story," she later added.

Insider sources reveal ABC's directive to 'The View' co-hosts

Insider sources reportedly told the publication that ABC executives wanted 'The View' co-hosts to "play nice with Carrie," as they are fiercely protective of the singer's clean image.

"They’ve made it crystal clear to the ladies of 'The View' — especially the more confrontational ones — that Carrie is strictly off-limits for their usual tough questioning," they shared and added, "Carrie Underwood is a ratings magnet, and ABC knows they can’t afford to alienate her massive fanbase."

The source noted that the singer herself wanted to avoid any drama, saying, "Carrie wants to stay focused on her music and her work. She’s not interested in being dragged into political drama, and the network is doing everything they can to shield her from it.”

However, it might be easy to keep 'The View' co-hosts in check, as they added, "These women are not used to being told what they can and can’t say. There’s definitely some resentment.”

Internet slammed 'The View' co-hosts for criticizing Carrie Underwood

Netizens were already opposed to Joy Behar slamming Carrie Underwood on the talk show. Their reactions on the social media platform X to the discussion on her performing at Donald Trump's inauguration demonstrate their takes.

"Turns out the whole world doesn’t center around Joy's opinion or the opinion of any of you guys," wrote a user.

"Joy Behar is such a stick in the mud," jibed another.

"Someone needs to start a campaign to cancel The View," stated someone else.

"That’s just it Joy. You have an opinion. So does the rest of the country!" pointed out a user.

"She’s one of the best singers in the world. Kudos for the job offer. She deserves the stage," expressed one individual.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.