The View Hosts Criticized for Shifting Tone After Epstein File Release

Clips of the hosts' comments before and after the release of the Epstein files have sparked debate online.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Clips from ABC's The View are circulating on social media this week, drawing attention to what some users are calling a stark 'before and after' shift in tone regarding the Jeffrey Epstein files. One resurfaced segment features co-host Ana Navarro urging transparency ahead of the document release, while a second clip shows former co-host Joy Behar commenting on why some public figures' names appeared in the documents. The side-by-side comparison has fueled debate online, with critics arguing the show's tone shifted once names of well-known figures appeared in the files.

Why it matters

The clips have reignited discussion about media coverage of the Epstein files, public transparency, and how different outlets have handled the fallout from the document release. The debate highlights the challenges media organizations face in reporting on high-profile scandals involving powerful individuals.

The details

The first clip shows co-host Ana Navarro urging transparency ahead of the Epstein file release, saying 'Release the damn files — and release them now!' The second clip features former co-host Joy Behar commenting on why some public figures' names appeared in the documents, stating 'We're on the list because we were at a party.' The side-by-side comparison has led to accusations that the show's tone shifted once names of well-known figures appeared in the files.

  • The Epstein files were released in February 2026.

The players

Ana Navarro

A co-host of The View who urged transparency ahead of the Epstein file release.

Joy Behar

A former co-host of The View who commented on public figures' names appearing in the Epstein documents.

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What they’re saying

“Release the damn files — and release them now!”

— Ana Navarro, Co-host of The View

“We're on the list because we were at a party.”

— Joy Behar, Former co-host of The View

What’s next

The View has not issued a statement addressing the viral comparison of the hosts' comments before and after the Epstein file release.

The takeaway

The debate over The View's coverage of the Epstein files highlights the challenges media organizations face in reporting on high-profile scandals involving powerful individuals. The shifting tone of the hosts' comments has fueled discussions about media transparency and the handling of sensitive information.