Season Debut of ABC's THE VIEW Hits 8-Year High in Total Viewers

Featuring the highly anticipated-return of Rosie O'Donnell to "The View," joining moderator Whoopi Goldberg and newcomers, actress Rosie Perez and Republican political analyst Nicolle Wallace, the season 18 premiere of "The View" was the series' best premiere in 8 years in Total Viewers (3.902 million - since Rosie joined the cast in 2006).

In fact, it was the series' #2 premiere on record in Total Viewers, while among target Women, it posted solid double digit percent increases over its year ago launch to hit 3-year highs among Women 18-49 (+15% - 683,000 vs. 596,000) and Women 25-54 (+20% - 911,000 vs. 761,000).

Source: Nielsen Media Research (Fast Affiliate, Live + Same Day Ratings), 9/15/14.

ABC's commitment to reinventing their popular franchise, "The View," and evolving THE TALK show creatively is underway and it's all building to the much-anticipated season premiere onMONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15. It is shaping up to be a season unlike any in recent history.

As part of the reinvention, "The View" has taken up residence in the ABC Broadcast Center. The new studio will now house a visually stunning, contemporary state-of-the-art set designed in the round and offering the addition of an on-camera social media station allowing the hosts to interact in real time with viewers. "The View" will also be branded with a new color scheme and logo, marking the first time in the show's history that it has changed significantly.

The first official glimpse of "The View's" new direction hits national airwaves on Thursday, August 21 with promotional teaser spots.

As previously announced, Rosie O'Donnell makes her triumphant return to daytime television as a featured co-host of "The View" and will be seated opposite the show's moderator Whoopi Goldberg. The stage is set for in-depth and opinion-shaping discussions and the chemistry between Goldberg and O'Donnell is both electric and undeniable. "The View" will stay committed to the original concept of smart women of different ages, experiences and backgrounds with diverse points of view engaging in thought provoking discussions derived from topics that face our nation and the world. "The View" is the original forum for lively conversations generated from entertainment, social media, politics, family, sex and relationships as well as beauty and fashion. Who will join this powerhouse duo and complete the dynamic panel? Stay tuned.