Executive summary: In a recent incident at ABC, ‘The View’ co-hosts Sunny Hostin and Joy Behar sparked controversy by allegedly hijacking colleague Deborah Roberts’ annual charity clothing sale, leaving junior staffers upset over early access and payment issues.
The charity sale, hosted by ’20/20′ anchor Deborah Roberts, is an annual event where she sells used designer clothing from her closet to raise money for organizations like Citymeals on Wheels, which fights hunger among the elderly. This year, the sale took place last week at ABC’s offices, and junior staffers, who look forward to the opportunity to purchase affordable high-end items, were particularly excited.
However, according to insider accounts reported by Page Six, Hostin and Behar arrived three hours before the sale officially started, while Roberts’ team was still setting up. The duo, described as ‘deal-loving millionaires,’ allegedly rifled through the items, took the best pieces, and then stated that ‘someone will be in touch to take care of the bill.’ This early access left junior staffers fuming, as they felt sidelined by the high-profile co-hosts.
The situation escalated when, hours later, a producer called to inquire about the bill and asked for a discount, adding to the perception of entitlement. Junior staffers, who earn significantly less than Hostin and Behar, were reportedly ‘livid’ that the stars not only got first dibs but also delayed payment and sought special treatment. The insider described it as ‘such a bad look’ and highlighted the sense of unfairness among lower-paid employees.
Hostin and Behar addressed the controversy on their ‘Behind the Table’ podcast with ‘The View’ executive producer Brian Teta. Hostin explained that she learned about the sale through her glam squad and texted Roberts for permission to come early, which was granted. She emphasized that they only purchased a few items and defended their actions by comparing their purchases to those of ‘Good Morning America’ anchor Lara Spencer, who reportedly bought more. Behar called the office chatter ‘complete and fake news,’ stating that she only bought four items, including Chanel earrings as a gift for a staffer, and paid in cash because she doesn’t use Venmo.
Roberts provided clarity to Page Six, confirming that both Hostin and Behar paid for their items. She said, ‘Joy showed up promptly with cash the next day and Sunny Venmoed like everyone else and was quite generous.’ Roberts emphasized that the sale is for a good cause, supporting food insecurity charities, and she was happy to have colleagues participate. She added that the incident was blown out of proportion and that everyone involved was excited for the shopping moment.
The charity sale serves as a way for Roberts to declutter her closet while raising funds for worthy causes, with items ranging from clothing and shoes to ties from her husband, weatherman Al Roker. Despite the brief controversy, the event ultimately succeeded in generating donations, and Roberts expressed gratitude for the support. The incident sheds light on workplace dynamics at major networks and how perceptions of privilege can affect team morale, but it appears to have been resolved amicably with all parties contributing to charity.
