Sunny Hostin on Life at 'The View' and Family Dynamics
As a cohost on The View, Sunny Hostin has been right in the middle of all the drama—both on-screen and off—that has marked the show this year. When asked about the public fascination with the show's internal dynamics, Sunny, 51, laughed and told Closer, "People are so intrigued by us, and I find that endlessly fascinating. It's like any family, you know? There are days when we argue, just like my kids squabble over silly things, like who ate the last pickle in the jar. But the next day, they’re fine, laughing and going to school together. That’s exactly what The View is like. It’s a family, with all the ups and downs."
From Bronx Beginnings to Fighting for Justice
Sunny's ability to navigate these dynamics with grace and humor stems from a life shaped by adversity. Growing up in the crime-ridden Bronx, she witnessed her uncle being stabbed at just seven years old—an experience that profoundly impacted her life. "That tragedy made me who I am today," Sunny explained. It inspired her to pursue a career in law, leading her to Notre Dame Law School, where she became a prosecutor and eventually a voice for criminal justice on television. Now, she’s tackling new challenges, advocating for women's heart health and writing her first two books—Summer on the Bluffs, a novel releasing on June 16, and her memoir I Am These Truths, out September 22. "I get bored easily," she admitted, "so the more challenges I can take on, the better!"
Heart Health Advocacy: A Cause Close to Sunny’s Heart
It was great to see you at the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women Red Dress Collection in February. Do you have family members affected by heart issues?
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Sunny shared that while she has family members who’ve suffered heart attacks, her passion for the cause extends beyond personal experience. "It’s a bigger issue for me," she said. "Black women die from heart disease more than any other cause, and the worst part is that they’re often excluded from research. If I can raise even a little awareness, it’s worth it." Her dedication to this cause reflects her commitment to using her platform to create meaningful change.
A Career Built on Passion and Ambition
You’ve had an incredibly diverse career. Before your work in TV, you were a law clerk, trial attorney, and federal prosecutor. What drives you?
Sunny attributes her drive to a lifelong passion for learning and trying new things. "I’m ambitious and love working," she said, "but more than anything, I’m a constant learner. I love talking and arguing, so getting a job on The View was like a dream come true."
Joining 'The View': A Serendipitous Moment
How did you land your job on The View?
Sunny recounted her journey to the show, which began with her work on CNN and ABC News. "Whoopi Goldberg, bless her heart, is an insomniac. She saw me on TV and suggested me to Bill Geddie, the then-executive producer. They started auditioning me, and here I am!"
The Future of 'The View'
Who do you think will replace Abby Huntsman as a cohost?
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Sunny acknowledged that Abby will be hard to replace. "She’s wonderful, and I miss her," Sunny said. "But whoever joins us needs to bring passion, confidence, and a unique perspective. I’m excited to see who that person will be."
Ana Navarro: A Possible Candidate?
Could guest cohost Ana Navarro be the one?
Sunny laughed at the idea, noting Ana's strong ties to Miami and her husband, Al. "If she’s willing to move to New York, I’m sure we’d have her every day. But I don’t know if she’s ready for that."
Long-Term Commitment to 'The View'
How long do you plan to stay on The View?
Sunny joked about her long-term contract, saying, "I’ll be there until they kick me out! But honestly, I love it here."
A Life Shaped by Adversity
You recently spoke about kids shouting a racial slur at you and your family. How did that situation resolve?
While the perpetrators weren’t found, Sunny praised the police for their thorough investigation. "The community rallied around me, and it was incredibly heartening. Meeting Ruth Bader Ginsburg this year gave me hope that things are moving in the right direction."
Reflections on Childhood and Legacy
What childhood experiences shaped your path?
Sunny reflected on growing up in the Bronx, surrounded by poverty and violence. "It shaped me into someone who fights for others who haven’t had the opportunities I’ve had. My upcoming memoir, I Am These Truths, is my way of sharing a roadmap with others, offering guidance and explanations for how to achieve their dreams."
Life’s Most Memorable Moments
What’s the most amazing thing you’ve experienced?
Sunny shared that prosecuting child sex crimes remains her proudest legal accomplishment. "But every moment feels like the best is yet to come. Speaking in front of Congress, interviewing presidential candidates on The View, and, most importantly, raising my children—these are the experiences that define me."
View this post on InstagramThe beginning of the Lenten Season. Pray to see yourself as God sees you. Your eyes will be open to something wonderful. Thank you for that message @fredwardbeck. #ashwednesday
