Stupid feud of the week: Manilow vs. Hasselbot

Caroline Mon, Feb 9, 2009 at 12:18 AM EST

I wanted to lastly add, that when Elton John was on the show he GRACIOUSLY greeted Elsabeth, Elton John is liberal, pro gay marriage and
the whole works and yet he was so gracious in greeting Elisabeth on the show.

I would have thought it would have been the other way around with Barry being the gracious one..not that Elton John is not gracious but he greeted Elisabth so kindly, knowing her conservative views. I thought--"Ok Elton...nice touch! Bravo!"

So, oh well. I think this costs him some sales. Conservatives who were fans were insulted.

Caroline Mon, Feb 9, 2009 at 12:06 AM EST

Answering w's post..No, it's not his perogative. It's not his show.

It was not Barry's perogative to get what he wnated regarding the View issue. It's not his show!! I am certain he runs his shows the way he wants to , so The View is not Barry Manilow's Show. He was on as a Guest and the whole thing unfortunately made him look bad.

Caroline Mon, Feb 9, 2009 at 12:02 AM EST

I don;t garee with you Roz about the remark you made saying of Tom Cruise asked to be just interviewed by Bawa wawa, he woul dhave gotten that. And myabe if that's true, then Barry found iut he;s not as big as Tom Criuse. lol..

Barry used to be humble. I've seen a big change in him in the last few years. Guess it almost always goes to your head.

Caroline Sun, Feb 8, 2009 at 11:55 PM EST

I am a fan of Barry's but I took offense to this being a conservative myself. Hmmm...I thought...Conservatives buy his records too. He didn't complain then...

Like his music but ever since that and another thing that I felt was wrong, kind kind of quite don't feel the same about him anymore...and I'm osomeone who danced with him twice on stage.Imagine? A lady who danced with him and not swept off my feat! LOL...Just wasn't.. It was fun but that was about it.

I think he's a brilliant musician.. that's factual.. and he's brought people together with his muic, but it made me wonder about himThe Elisabeth thing and other things I;ve heard form reliable people...made me wonder who he really is? Is it a persona or the real deal... I don't know...just been seeing that maybe it's about the money... and maybe just a little too much about the money? LOL... The spell just broke for me with him with a couple of antics from his management too.

Julia Wed, Dec 17, 2008 at 04:20 PM EST

Has anyone seen Clay Aiken and Barry Manilow in the same room at the same time?

Rubi koren Wed, Jun 11, 2008 at 09:38 AM EST

He is AN OLD FOOL, Iwould neve spen a dime to see him. Stupid Ass
Rubi

bonash Thu, Sep 20, 2007 at 11:08 PM EST

manilow is an idiot

Stephen Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 08:18 PM EST

jesus that pic of elizabeth looks like a younger barbara walters. time is not on her side

Been there Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 02:15 PM EST

A few years ago, I was scheduled to interview Barry Manilow by phone for his appearance on a TV show. I was warned shortly before the call that he had just REEMED another reporter for not even watching the show that Barry was going to be on. I was afraid that Barry might not be in the best mood to talk to me and things wouldn't work out well, but early on I dropped a few hints that I had done my homework and we had a GREAT chat. He was very forthcoming and he didn't need to be coddled. He was a pro. I don't know (like everyone else here) the details behind this but I suspect there's something more at work here.

Sally Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 12:18 PM EST

Totally agree w/ Susman.

rtms Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 11:31 AM EST

It's silly, it's not like he was going to host Hot Topics with them where is gets political. First when they interview on the couch all the women ask questions. Second he could have just ask that no political questions be asked which Im sure The View would of honored.He also could have asked that one of the other ladies take the lead in question period. Again they all ask questions during that time. For him to demand that Elisabeth actually leave the show for that segment or day is truly diva behavior and incredibly arrogant and mean. People should be able to sit with others of different views and at least be respectful of them.

Roz Brown Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 10:04 AM EST

I work at a publicity office in Hollywood. It is very common for a star of Manilow's caliber to request a particular host to interview him. Very common. While he may have appeared on the show before with Elizabeth in attendance, he asked that the interview portion of his appearance be done by one of the other ladies. This is done all the time. I'm very surprised THE VIEW had a problem with the request. If Tom Cruise were to ask to be interviewed by Barbara, it would happen with no flinch. This whole thing is odd and silly VIEW.

w Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 10:02 AM EST

You said it, "He's been on there before with Hasselbot". Exactly. Maybe he just really doesn't like her, and doesn't want to be around her or talk to her, isn't that his perogative? Haven't any of you ever actively disliked someone so much that you can't stand being around them? And maybe, he just doesn't want to be a phoney, acting like they're friends, making chit-chat with her. And I mean, it's not like she's the only one there to interview him. He was probably being polite saying it was about her political views instead of saying why he really didn't want to talk with her and look what politeness got him. That will teach him.

Leslie Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 09:12 AM EST

I rarely agree with Elisabeth, but I admire that she doesn't back down. She's the only conservative in a sea of liberals- that can't be easy.
Manilow? Well he's been irrelevant for years.

Off With Elisabeth Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 08:33 AM EST

I have no problems with whiny,conservatives whose claim to fame is "Survivor". Or fat, overbearing, media whores that have money and still get their wedding sponsors.
Or even loud, obnoxious, Trump haters. They just have no place on "The View"

orville Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 07:44 AM EST

Well, this whole hubbub is going to bring more publicity to him than a simple interview would have. Unfortunately, I'm not sure that he knows that the old saying that any publicity is good publicity isn't necessarily true. I don't think he's going to get better album sales out of this, but the show just might get better ratings. I don't agree with anything that Elizabeth has to say either (but it's her stringent, yet *uninformed* arguments that bother me most), yet if I were going on the show to talk about my CD release, I would have no problem since Gary Susman is right--do you think that a discussion of 70s cover songs is going to suddenly migrate over to a serious discussion on politics or evolution? Barry's publicist should have cuffed him across the ear and told him to get over it instead of helping the bad publicity engine to start chugging along.

Sherri's Worse Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 07:18 AM EST

I would rather be interviewed by Hasselbot than the new one, Sherri Shepard. I was watching it yesterday and they were discussing the fact that she doesn't believe in evolution, and to make a point regarding science, Whoopi asked Sherri if the world is round, and Sherri said she doesn't know. This woman should NOT be allowed a forum on national television to display such ignorance.

FLIPPER Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 06:32 AM EST

I don't like Rosie O'Donnell but I wouldn't refuse an interview with her. Unless she did or said something against me personally, why the fuss? Manilow is acting like a school boy who's best friend got shoved by a bully.
Time to grow up Barry.

Jim Wed, Sep 19, 2007 at 06:24 AM EST

Dave- I won't deny that Barry is being stupid here, but the Dixie Chicks was not just a matter of some people deciding not to buy their records. They were (and still are) organized boycotts and radio stations refusing to play their music, with right wing commentators villifying them. Both sides are wrong in these cases.

whol Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 06:51 PM EST

What he doesn't seem to understand is that he might have a large number of politically conservative fans who agree with some of the things Hasselbeck says. WOOPS!

vw Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 06:05 PM EST

It's amazing how personal comments can get when people don't have to face the person they're talking about.You can disagree without tearing someone apart.But back to the point, news has also come in that Manilow is a close friend of Rosie's so you know it's like payback time but c'mon!It's Barry Manilow! Nobody cares if you are on or not.What little leverage you had is G O N E!

stephen Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 05:21 PM EST

If babs wants a conservative voice, my vote would go for Patricia Heaton. (once her show gets cancelld, of course). Elizabeth is cold and shrill, whereas Heaton is very warm and already beloved by millions. Plus, she has accomplished something, whereas Hasselback is just a loser from a reality show married to a football player.

Snarf Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 04:45 PM EST

So much for "freedom" Apparently if your views don't match someone elses your "dangerous" or un-American. It's a slippery slope your on folks.

Merr Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 04:39 PM EST

Barry Manilow has a right to say anything he wants to say and if he thinks being interviewed by Hasselhog is going to be uncomfortable, his wishes should have been considered Too bad for the View - just a little more negative headlines for them. Freedom of Speech travels both ways guys.

Ames Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 04:26 PM EST

I don't know Barry Manilow, so I have no idea how intelligent he is, but I have a hard time believing anyone could think what panelists on The View say is "dangerous." That is just absurd. So I have some trouble believing this story. He'll probably come on the show a week later and people will want to tune in to see the "fireworks".

Marshall Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 04:17 PM EST

She is a dirty whore. ...and Hasselback is a blond plastic robot.

dj Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 03:47 PM EST

I wouldn't want to share space with her either. She is so vapid and annoying that it wouldn't matter what I was trying to sell - I just wouldn't subject myself to her.

dma69 Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 02:57 PM EST

Liberals AND conservatives need to STFU already! Enough! I just want to be entertained, not have to choose sides. With that said, Barry's a has-been, Hasslebot's an idiot, and ABC needs to cancel THE VIEW. End of story.

Nancy Walker Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 02:53 PM EST

Say What!? Manilow is acting like a sissy. He should be more dignified in his old age. And I agree, he is there for his music. This is pathetic! I have always liked him, but this is really sad.

Nancy Walker Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 02:53 PM EST

Say What!? Manilow is acting like a sissy. He should be more dignified in his old age. And I agree, he is there for his music. This is pathetic! I have always liked him, but this is really sad.

Owen Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 02:49 PM EST

Suggestion to the talented EW staff:

Please give us an article about the staff of The View, grading each host individually. I think we'd all love to see your analysis. I'd give Joy an A. Sherri a B-. Whoopi a B. Hasselbeck a D-. Barbara gets a B+.

Kaceamundo Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 02:45 PM EST

I've been a Barry Manilow for more years than I care to admit. I must say that I am very disappointed in him. Did some of Rosie's insanity rub off on him when she recorded a song with him? Personally, I find his actions offensive.

Dean Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 02:44 PM EST

This is a real sad story. Barry, I understand why you did this personally. This was a professional opportunity promoting your works in which millions appreciate. Your fans are fans which consist of many views (voices)that being of a Democrat, Republican or Independent. Please take the high road as an musician. Yes, you are entitled to your views and strong interests. (If anyone has visited your website you do an awesome job in helping many charities throughout the world.) Please stay off the political stage (i.e. Dixie Chicks) Stay on the stage you go best. Entertain and share your music. Please!

Niki Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 02:34 PM EST

I don't know why Elizabeth Hasselbeck is on the view. I agree that everyone is entitled to their opinions. But not only is she ignorant she has absolutely NO charisma or personality. She is stiff and seems very uncomfortable and over rehearsed when interviewing guests.

Alan Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 02:12 PM EST

Hasselbeck's stupidity is dangerous more than anything else. She will probably gow down as the least articulate TV host in history. She never has anything original or interesting to say. Sometimes she sounds like she's TRYING to sound smart, when really she comes across as very dumb, uneducated girl. When I saw Mandy Moore as a guest yesterday, I thought to myself, darn, I wish SHE could replace Hasselbeck! In only a few minutes, Moore showed that she is more engaging than all of Hasselbeck's seasons on The View.

Ted Koppell Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 02:05 PM EST

Manilow is a giant douchebag.

Tricia Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 02:01 PM EST

Gotcha delboy. Thanks for the clarification! You are right, they are probably trying to now cover for what has proven to be an unpopular decision.

Jon Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:59 PM EST

Manilow = Pu55y

dave Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:57 PM EST

Jim - people not wanting to buy Dixie Chicks albums is not analogous to Manilow refusing to be on the show. I think both are kinda dumb; but with the Dixie Chicks, people didn't want to give their money to people they felt insulted them, whereas Manilow is publicly refusing to appear on a discussion show because he disagrees with one person's views. Imagine if an actor announced he was cancelling his Late Show appearance because Paul Shaffer is a Democrat. Wouldn't that be stupid?

Anna - any Conservative who tries to suppress dissenting opinions is in the wrong. Two wrongs don't make a right.

Delboy Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:56 PM EST

Tricia - I was just directly quoting how TMZ had put it and was more interested in how fast Manilow/his people were moving to try and move the blame for what I agree is a stupid feud...

Anonymous Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:55 PM EST

What, no story about that View host (the fat one) who didn't know whether or not the world is flat?

Tricia Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:49 PM EST

Delboy, it's just semantics. Manilow (through his people) demanded to remove Elisabeth from the interview and The View rightfully said no. Barbara Walters talked about this on her radio show last night and explained it that way. Bottom line is that Barbara rightfully sided with Elisabeth (and the other hosts who might have been subjected to the same thing in the future had Babs allowed Barry his way).

moomoo Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:43 PM EST

I have to work closely, every day with people I find to be complete idiots. I'll probably have to work years with them. I work with people I don't like too. (In addition to all the great people I work with.) Celebs need to get a grip and suck it up like the rest of us.

Delboy Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:41 PM EST

Clicked on the link to TMZ and there's been an update:
"UPDATE: A source tells TMZ that it's not Barry who's writing this song -- in fact, "View" producers pulled the plug on Manilow's performance when his people demanded that he appear on the show without Elisabeth. Manilow has in fact performed on the show twice before -- both last year -- when Hasselbeck's been co-hosting."

Tricia Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:40 PM EST

wow, this one has me really sad. I have been a HUGE Barry Manilow fan for many years. Bought most of his records; been to probably ten live shows and celebrated his career. So, this stupid, stupid decision to boycott The View has made me decide not to buy the new record (which I had planned to do). Very disappointed in Barry and it showed a side of him I didn't need to know existed.

Union City Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:39 PM EST

Please don't call Barry Manilow a "whiny diva" just because he refuses to share the stage with a woman who makes his (and millions of others') flesh crawl! I'm no fan of Manilow's, but I support him 100%! That Hasselbeck dame is an idiot! Why she's even employed as a "View" co-hostess is the mystery of all time. If Babs Walters wants a "conservative" voice on "The View," then fine--but at least get someone who's halfway intelligent. I hope that MORE celebrities refuse to be interviewed by that pea-brain!

ericalina Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:35 PM EST

wow, does he not realize that people with her dangerous views have made him a billionaire?

czimmah Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:21 PM EST

I think he probably could just not stomach making nicey-nice with someone who so offends him. He probably asked to be interviewed by someone else and was told that was not possible, so it became a "thing". I know that i could never pretend not to dislike Elisabeth.

Ithaca Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:05 PM EST

Joe Kane - are you serious?? every man should be like him? Seriously?? Barry Manilow. Barry Manilow? Are we talking about the same person? It is one thing to not bash, but to say every man should be like him....seriously? The man wears shiny clothes, sings cheesy songs, has obviously had a fair amount of plastic surgery....which if that is his thing - great. But I think it would be a scarry thing for every man to be like him. One Barry Manilow is quite enough blessing to the world in which we live.

Jim Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 01:04 PM EST

No fredric, you're not the only one. I think she just neglected to hug everybody on her way to the couch. And yeah dave and Busta, it's not like conservatives organized boycotts of the Dixie Chicks.

Ang Knee Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 12:57 PM EST

Truth is, since his latest plastic surgery, Barry is afraid of being seen next to Barbara Walters.

fredric Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 12:52 PM EST

Am I the only one out there who doesn't think Alicia purposely snubbed Elisabeth?

jack Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 12:51 PM EST

I don't blame him, the problem isn't so much that she's conservative, but that she's inarticulate, and misinformed, with no interest in getting her facts straight.

As a wiser man than me once said, we're all entitled to our own opinions, but we are not entitled to our own facts.

Personally, I think Elizabeth is there because she's a dunce, Debbie M. may not have been a rocket scientist, but she could articulate her conservative views in an intelligent manner, I think that's why Walters and the others ganged up on her and kicked her off the show.

Manilow was on there to promote an album, not talk politics, this isn't Firing Line, it's a puff piece morning chat show, if an entertainer wants to pick their interviewer, I don't see the big deal. Same goes if Tom Selleck comes on and doesn't want Whoopie Goldberg to ask him about his Magnum PI DVDs, who cares.

joe kane Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 12:47 PM EST

who cares? manilow is a legend and a nice guy. every man should be like him. quit bashing and showing so much hatred. that is what repubs do best...hate. MANILOW FOREVER!

Stacey Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 12:43 PM EST

Hasselbot is just a puppet of the Exec. Producer- the "viewmaster". He bumped out Rosie because she didn't agree with him. It's not a rounded panel - the viewmaster wouldn't have it that way.
I say good for Barry for standing up to it.

Corran Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 12:41 PM EST

I may be a democrat, but Elizabeth has every right to let her opinions be heard on the panel as a conservative viewpoint. By not appearing because of her Barry Manilow is being a hypocrite to his liberal beliefs because he can't comprehend a conservative "freedom of speech." He's honestly no better than Alicia Silverstone who snubbed Elizabeth. He should have more class as an artist, and should be more respectful that people can have different viewpoints and be allowed to be heard on national tv.

stephen Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 12:07 PM EST

Anyone who goes against that ho gets my love, but it would have been better if he went on the show and ripped Elizab**ch a new one.

Bonnie Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 11:51 AM EST

I have to say I'm not a fan of elizabeth's views... we disagree on most things...but Barry Manilow's behavior here is just ridiculous.. the whole point of the view is that women with varrying viewpoints come together and chat.... you do not get to pick and choose the ones who best suit your whim... this country is based on the right for everyone to express their views in life.. shame on Barry for trying to quiet one of them up.

Just a note guys: never lump a group of people(liberals/conservatives)..together and act like one represents the whole.. it's just.. well ignorant

Elly Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 11:44 AM EST

Elisabeth's opinions aren't what offends me - I occasionally agree with her. Rather, it is her complete inability to recognize that she may be wrong, or that her point of view isn't the only valid one. I have seen all of the other hosts - past and present, including Rosie - grant others their right to an opinion that differs from their own. Elisabeth behaves like a petulant child who spouts off without thinking things through, and it's the "my way or the highway" attitude that is the root of her problem.

mike Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 11:40 AM EST

Why is there always some feud on the View? It's almost like these things are staged to get publicity. Can the steel cage matches be far behind?

nan Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 11:24 AM EST

Note to Barry: Please let nature take its course, lay off the botox.

Kevo Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 11:21 AM EST

I thought it was called "The View" not "My View, which is the only correct one". I may not agree with Hasselback but I defend her right to say it (whoa, high school history class flashback).

Gillian Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 11:20 AM EST

If Barry doesn't want to appear on the show that's his choice, but his reason is ridiculous. It's just another example of how people who claim to be the most tolerant and open minded actually aren't.

carlo Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 11:09 AM EST

I personally find that Hasselback gets more offensive with every episode of THE VIEW. Maybe when he's been on in the past she didnt get to him as much. If I were him I would do the same thing - she's revolting.

Anna Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 11:07 AM EST

Oh Dave, there are a lot of conservatives who would eradicate liberal opinions from the media if they had the chance. It's not just liberals.

GeeMoney Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 11:02 AM EST

Maybe he's just doing this to sell records. You never know.....

GeeMoney Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 11:01 AM EST

Maybe he's just doing this to sell records. You never know.....

Dio_K Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 11:00 AM EST

This is so silly, I can't help but laugh.

Jill Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 10:59 AM EST

Why did he schedule the appearance in the first place?

If he can have his views, why can't Elisabeth have hers?

Nancy Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 10:59 AM EST

Barry has always been so bland...does this mean he's getting ready to come out? It's okay, Barry, I got over my girlhood crush on you in the late '70's. I won't be crushed. Other than that, he has a right to his opinions, but then again, so does Elizabeth.

busta Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 10:55 AM EST

It really amazes me that liberals are supposed to be compassionate. What happened to having differing views and opinions? I don't agree with Whoopi or Joy but I still enjoy the show for what it is supposed to be. What a diva! If I remember correctly, didn't Alicia Silverstone ignore Elizabeth when she went to shake hands and also Jane Seymour I believe. Correct me if I am wrong. These are supposed to be open viewed people yet they are anything but and I lose some respect for them when they act spoiled and childish.

Steve from Yellowstone Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 10:49 AM EST

Obviously, diversity and tolerance is a one way street and works only when everyone agrees with your opinion, right Barry?

jeff Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 10:45 AM EST

You know what the best way to defeat "dangerous and offensive" views is? Prove they're wrong. Address them head on, and convince the audience why your views are right.

Running away and ignoring them? Not terribly persuasive.

fredric Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 10:44 AM EST

I don't think it's much different than any other artist not going on a particular show. For years, we've seen certain celebs refrain from Letterman or other shows based on not-so-great relationships. It's just that Manilow made his reasons known, which he probably didn't have to make public. It's probably better to keep some of those things under the radar because then it polarizes audiences in a way.

kana Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 10:43 AM EST

i agree with Dave and Martha. While i don't agree with her, i applaud Elisabeth for sticking to her beliefs even though they're not popular and i applaud The View for not homogenizing its panel to suit the favorite perspective. Last time i checked we all had freedom of speech.

Stephanie Travitsky Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 10:40 AM EST

Gary,

Bruce Johnston of the Beach Boys wrote "I Write the Songs". Secondly I really hope that this season Babs will try not to focus on Hasselbrats boo-hoo fits.

ToromtoTom Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 10:37 AM EST

I would love to see more guests opt out of The View because of HassleTwit. She's a liability to the show - a carefully planned Sweeps Month Firing would be smashing!!!

dave Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 10:36 AM EST

It seems like a lot of Liberals want free speech only if they agree with it. If they had their way, there would be no Conservative opinions heard on TV or the radio (there's already none in movies). Manilow should get over himself. It's unbelievable how arrogant some people are; they don't even want to let the other side speak!

Martha Tue, Sep 18, 2007 at 10:33 AM EST

Whiny diva, indeed. And if it's true that he called Hasselbeck's views "dangerous and offensive," then he's also pompous and self-righteous. There are plenty of people out there with views like Hasselbeck's - it's a good thing that "The View" has some diversity of opinion. If Manilow can't deal with it, he can take his dolls and dishes and go elsewhere...but we get to snark at him, too. ;-)