The View Ratings Are Up 9%

Entertainment Tonight reports that the ratings for The View are up 9% since Rosie O'Donnell joined the gabfest in September. This may be related, in part, to the departure of Star Jones who's contract was not renewed by ABC because of negative feedback in focus groups.

The View is my favorite show and I have to admit that I've had a hard time adjusting to Rosie as the moderator. I love Meredith Veiera and the two have such different styles.

One thing I've noticed since Rosie joined the cast is that Elisabeth Hasselbeck's conservative opinions seem to be moderating. She and Ro are developing a motherly kindred spirits bond since they both have young children. They talk about Elisabeth going to Rosie's house for play dates and she compliments Rosie on her "amazing relationship" with Kelly and how her kids are so great and well behaved. I guess what they say is true: when we know better, we do better.

Meanwhile, over at Today on NBC, Meredith has made a smooth transition. Ratings are even, maintaining their #1 status, with those achieved when Katie Couric was the co-host. Good for her!