Elisabeth Endorses Whoopi For ‘The View’

Rosie O’Donnell’s “View” replacement will be announced this week, but co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck is already championing one candidate – Whoopi Goldberg.

“I loved working with Whoopi Goldberg,” Hasselbeck told People magazine. “She is soulful, has a world of experience to bring to the table, and I don’t sense any sort of political agenda.”

Goldberg was one of two women, the other being comedian Sherri Shepherd, who the Los Angeles Times said were in contract negotiations with ABC. Two slots are open on the panel.

Barbara Walters confirmed the announcement over who will join the ladies, will be made this week.

Whoopi was one of the first people tipped for Rosie’s post. She even filled in following O’Donnell’s early departure from the show back in May, after Rosie and Elisabeth’s sparred on-air.

O’Donnell and Hasselbeck argued when Rosie accused Elisabeth of not defending her to conservative pundits who accused O’Donnell of calling U.S. troops terrorists. O’Donnell labeled Hasselbeck “cowardly” for not saying anything in response to the critics.

Whoopi, like Rosie, is known for voicing her opinions — often with a dose of comedy. The multi-faceted celebrity has won a Grammy, Emmy, Oscar and a Tony Award. Along with her work as an actress and comedian, Whoopi has hosted a radio show for the past year.

Whoopi has served as a recurring guest-host on “The View” in the past, and has reportedly garnered praise from “View” hosts Joy Behar, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, and Rosie herself.

In a May 31st posting on her official Website, Rosie wrote “love whoopi” in response to a fan’s question about her opinion on a replacement host.

When asked if her co-host, Walters also supported Whoopi, Hasselbeck told People, yes.

“You’d have to ask Barbara but I’m sure she is. Who isn’t into Whoopi? She’s an amazing person,” Hasselbeck noted.