Breaking: Megan Rapinoe to Join Whoopi Goldberg on ‘The View’ After Her Retirement
In a headline-making career shift, retired soccer star Megan Rapinoe is set to join Whoopi Goldberg and the panel of ABC’s The View in a move that’s already generating buzz, backlash, and big ratings expectations.
The announcement came just weeks after Rapinoe officially hung up her cleats following a decorated yet polarizing career both on and off the field. Known as much for her outspoken views on politics, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ rights as her World Cup heroics, Rapinoe’s next chapter will bring her voice into millions of American homes five days a week.
From the Pitch to the Panel
Rapinoe is expected to step in as a recurring co-host and commentator, joining Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, Sunny Hostin, and Alyssa Farah Griffin on ABC’s long-running daytime talk show. Insiders say she could eventually take over a permanent chair, depending on audience reception and chemistry with the panel.
“Megan Rapinoe is fearless, unapologetic, and exactly the kind of voice we want on The View,” an ABC executive reportedly said. “She’s not afraid to tackle hot-button issues, and that’s what this show thrives on.”
Whoopi + Rapinoe: A Power Duo or a Powder Keg?
The pairing of Rapinoe with The View’s longtime lightning rod, Whoopi Goldberg, has drawn immediate attention. Both women are known for challenging authority, clapping back at critics, and igniting culture war debates. Whether their dynamic results in fierce harmony or fiery disagreements remains to be seen.
“This is either going to be the most woke show in history—or the most explosive,” joked one media analyst. “Either way, people will be watching.”
A Polarizing Addition
Not everyone is applauding the decision. Rapinoe, who has been both celebrated and criticized for kneeling during the national anthem, her outspoken political views, and her involvement in social justice campaigns, has long divided public opinion.
Critics took to social media to slam ABC’s move, calling it “a slap in the face to patriotic viewers” and predicting the show will “lean even further left.” Others, however, see the hire as a progressive step forward.
“We need more strong women like Megan Rapinoe in media,” one supporter tweeted. “She speaks truth to power. This is a win for all of us.”
A New Era for ‘The View’
Rapinoe’s addition comes as The View continues to evolve amid ratings battles and a rapidly changing media landscape. The show has leaned heavily into political commentary, and executives seem to be doubling down on that direction.
This isn’t the first time a sports figure has crossed over into talk TV, but Rapinoe’s unapologetic activism and cultural relevance make her one of the most impactful personalities ever to join a daytime panel.
What to Expect
Viewers can anticipate:
Heated debates on politics, women’s sports, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Behind-the-scenes insights from Rapinoe’s soccer career and activism.
An even more outspoken, progressive slant to The View’s daily discussions.
Whether viewers are tuning in to cheer her on or challenge her views, ABC seems confident that Megan Rapinoe will deliver the kind of television that gets people talking, tweeting, and tuning in.
Bottom Line:
From World Cup champion to TV co-host, Megan Rapinoe’s next move proves she’s not done making waves. With The View as her new platform, get ready for conversations that are louder, sharper, and more controversial than ever.