Elisabeth Hasselbeck is preparing for her return to “The View” next week, sharing that a friend gifted her a “Full Armor of God” play set as she prepares for the daytime talk show’s often-contentious discussions. The former co-host will appear as a guest from March 2, filling in for Alyssa Farah Griffin, who is on maternity leave following the birth of her son, Justin Patrick Griffin Jr., on February 10.
Hasselbeck revealed the gift in a now-expired Instagram Story, according to reports, describing the set – which includes symbolic items like a “helmet of salvation” and a “shield of faith” – as preparation for her return to the show. She also displayed an annotated Bible, stating it was her primary research material.
Hasselbeck was a full-time panelist on “The View” from 2003 to 2013, where her conservative viewpoints frequently clashed with those of her co-hosts, most notably Rosie O’Donnell. Following her departure, she joined Fox News’ “Fox & Friends” for two years.
The announcement of Hasselbeck’s return, along with those of Abby Huntsman and Savannah Chrisley, has generated significant reaction from viewers, according to Brian Teta, executive producer of “The View.” Teta discussed the response on the show’s “Behind the Table” podcast earlier this month, noting the particularly strong reaction to Hasselbeck’s return. “Which surprised me a little bit because she’s, don’t get me wrong, Elisabeth has controversial takes occasionally and passionate takes, but you two worked together for ten years and overall got along,” Teta said to co-host Joy Behar.
Behar responded to the viewer reaction with a brief comment: “It’s fine. She’s a good kid.”
In addition to Hasselbeck, Savannah Chrisley is scheduled to guest co-host from February 17-20, while Abby Huntsman and Sheryl Underwood are also slated to appear, though specific dates have not yet been announced, according to a show spokesperson.
