The world of daytime talk shows is no stranger to controversy, especially when politics and high-profile personalities collide. This week, ABC’s “The View” found itself in the headlines after co-host Sunny Hostin voiced her disappointment over the results of the 2025 presidential election and her strong opinions about tech mogul Elon Musk. But as rumors swirled about Hostin allegedly insulting Musk on live TV, the truth behind what happened—and what didn’t—offers a revealing look at how quickly misinformation can spread in today’s media landscape.

Election Fallout: Hostin’s “Profound Disturbance”

The latest season of “The View” has been marked by passionate political debate, with Sunny Hostin and her fellow co-hosts openly supporting Kamala Harris in her bid for the White House. The panel has not shied away from criticizing Donald Trump, frequently referring to his “levels of depravity” and, at times, calling him “psychotic” during interviews and discussions.

On the episode following Trump’s unexpected victory, Hostin did not hold back her feelings. “I think that in 2016, we didn’t know what we would get from a Trump administration, but we know now. And we know now that we will have almost unfettered power,” Hostin said, her voice tinged with concern. She described herself as “profoundly disturbed” by Trump’s return to the Oval Office—a sentiment echoed by many viewers and commentators in the wake of the election.

Elon Musk’s New Role and Hostin’s Response

Adding another layer to the post-election drama, Elon Musk was appointed as a “special government employee,” taking on the role of head of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The appointment sparked heated debate across media platforms, with supporters touting Musk’s visionary leadership and critics questioning his suitability for public office.

Sunny Hostin made her stance clear on the show, promising to delete her X (formerly Twitter) account as a form of protest against Musk’s growing influence. “I’m not going to buy a Tesla, I’m not going to buy Tesla stock,” she announced, distancing herself from Musk’s business ventures. Hostin lamented the changes Musk made to Twitter, saying, “Twitter was a hellscape before Elon Musk, then he changed the name to X, which was stupid. Nobody calls it X!”

Her remarks resonated with viewers who share her skepticism about Musk’s stewardship of the social media platform and his broader impact on American society.

Rumors and Reality: Did Hostin Insult Musk on Live TV?

Shortly after the episode aired, several online outlets began circulating claims that Hostin had called Musk a “b*d” on live television. The rumor quickly gained traction, with headlines suggesting that fellow co-host Joy Behar had apologized to Musk on air, emphasizing that Hostin’s opinion did not reflect the views of “The View” as a whole.

However, a closer look at the evidence tells a different story. No reliable media outlet reported the alleged insult, and there is no video footage to support the claim. In fact, the rumor appears to have originated from dubious sources and was amplified by social media users eager for controversy.

The rapid spread of the false story highlights the challenges faced by public figures in the age of viral misinformation. A single tweet or post can spark a wave of speculation, often overshadowing the actual substance of the conversation.

The View’s History of Political Commentary

“The View” has long been a platform for spirited debate, with its hosts tackling everything from pop culture to presidential politics. Sunny Hostin, a former federal prosecutor and legal analyst, is known for her incisive commentary and willingness to challenge powerful figures. Her critiques of Trump and Musk are consistent with the show’s tradition of outspoken advocacy and lively discussion

Co-hosts Joy Behar, Whoopi Goldberg, Alyssa Farah Griffin, and Sara Haines have also weighed in on the election and Musk’s appointment, each bringing their own perspectives to the table. The show’s willingness to confront controversial topics has made it a lightning rod for both praise and criticism, drawing passionate reactions from viewers across the political spectrum.

The Impact of Musk’s Appointment

Elon Musk’s new role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) marks a significant shift in the relationship between technology and governance. Musk’s supporters argue that his innovative approach could streamline government operations and reduce waste. Critics, including Hostin, worry that his influence could exacerbate existing inequalities and undermine democratic norms.

The debate over Musk’s appointment reflects broader anxieties about the role of billionaires in shaping public policy. As technology companies wield increasing power over everything from communication to transportation, questions about accountability and ethics have come to the forefront.

Social Media, Misinformation, and the Power of the Viral Clip

The episode’s aftermath underscores the double-edged nature of social media. While platforms like X (formerly Twitter) allow for instant communication and engagement, they also facilitate the rapid spread of rumors and distortions. Hostin’s decision to delete her account is emblematic of a growing backlash against the culture of online outrage and the influence of tech moguls like Musk.

The false claim that Hostin insulted Musk illustrates how quickly misinformation can take hold, especially when it involves high-profile personalities and hot-button issues. For viewers and media consumers, the incident serves as a reminder to seek out reliable sources and verify information before sharing it.

Public Reaction and the Role of Daytime TV

As the story unfolded, fans of “The View” took to social media to express their support for Hostin’s principled stance. Many praised her for speaking out against Musk and refusing to compromise her values, while others called for greater civility and respect in public discourse.

The debate also sparked broader conversations about the role of daytime TV in shaping public opinion. Shows like “The View” reach millions of viewers each day, providing a forum for discussion, education, and entertainment. The hosts’ willingness to tackle controversial issues ensures that the program remains relevant, even as it courts controversy.

Love, Peace, and the Importance of Truth

In the end, the episode serves as a microcosm of the challenges facing modern media. Sunny Hostin’s candid remarks about the election and Elon Musk reflect the anxieties and hopes of a divided nation. The rumors surrounding her alleged insult highlight the dangers of misinformation and the need for responsible journalism.

As Hostin herself might say, love and peace are more important than outrage and division. By focusing on facts and fostering open dialogue, “The View” and its hosts continue to play a vital role in the national conversation—reminding us all that, in a world of viral clips and trending hashtags, the truth still matters.