'The View' hosts clarify John Grisham's comments about 'assassinating Supreme Court justices' on talk show

MANHATTAN, NEW YORK CITY: On May 29 episode of ABC's 'The View,' the conversation took an unexpected turn when guest John Grisham hinted at a controversial plotline involving Supreme Court Justices.

Grisham, known for his legal thrillers, was discussing his latest book 'Camino Ghosts', which features a narration by co-host Whoopi Goldberg in its audiobook version.

John Grisham discusses 'Pelican Brief' sequel idea involving Supreme Court justices facing assassination

During the discussion, co-host Joy Behar raised questions about criticism directed at the Supreme Court, particularly in light of recent events like the overturning of Roe v Wade and related ethical concerns.

In response, Grisham, a former lawyer himself, mentioned the idea of writing a sequel to his novel 'The Pelican Brief', in which he contemplated a scenario where multiple Supreme Court justices face assassination.

It's worth noting that 'The Pelican Brief' was adapted into a film in 1993, starring Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts.

Grisham mentioned, "I wrote a great book called 'The Pelican Brief' in which two Supreme Court Justices were assassinated, and I thought about doing it again."

Behar swiftly interjected with a firm "No, no, no."

Goldberg chimed in, clarifying, "Writing part two! He’s talking about writing part two!"

Grisham reassured, "It’s all fiction. Don’t get upset," as the hosts elaborated on his response, with Behar echoing, “It’s all fiction. It’s just made up stories."

John Grisham advocates for retirement age for Supreme Court justices

The author argued that the reputation of the Supreme Court has taken a significant hit, stating that it has "never looked this bad."

"In my lifetime, some of the rulings, the ethical challenges, it went downhill in 2000 when five Republicans on the court chose to elect a president, it was political, Bush versus Gore, that’s when it all started really going downhill," he added. 

After arguing the same, Grisham suggested, "So I have no solution, because you can’t get rid of them. The solution is, make them all retire at the age of 75. Every federal judge should have to retire at the age of 75."

Earlier on 'The View,' first lady Jill Biden expressed concern about pro-Gaza campus protests and also the potential impact of adding another Republican-appointed justice to the Supreme Court, suggesting it could jeopardize citizens' rights.

"Think of the Supreme Court for God’s sake. Talk about things getting worse? Can you imagine if we put any more Republicans on the Supreme Court? No," she cautioned, adding, "We will lose all of our rights."

Netizens slam 'The View' for 'scrambling to clean up' the mess

The co-hosts of 'The View' clarifying that author John Grisham was not suggesting or considering the assassination of Supreme Court justices received major backlash from viewers. 

A particular viewer expressed, "This s**t show needs to be taken off the air. They are keeping unrest. These are the only kind of people that go on the View."

Following suit, another observer added, "Horrible comment by Grisham. Dangerous."

Additionally, a viewer pointed out, "We all know that is exactly what he was saying."

A follower contributed, "This show is horrible They should be held responsible."

A comment underscored, "@TheView oh, now they are mind readers??."

Another comment echoed, "Great, another pointless TV controversy. Like anyone actually thought Grisham wanted to whack some Supreme Court justices. Now the co-hosts are scrambling to clean up this mess. Just what we need, more drama on daytime TV."

An individual elaborated further, saying, "How is this show even on anyone’s radar…collective ignorance continually showcased." 

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