Whoopi Goldberg says Raven-Symone is now a permanent 'View' co-host

NEW YORK, June 10 (UPI) -- Raven-Symone has been hired as this season's fourth full-time co-host for The View, moderator Whoopi Goldberg announced on Wednesday's edition of the show.

Also on the current panel are Nicolle Wallace and Rosie Perez. Former co-host Rosie O'Donnell briefly returned to the chat program this season, but quickly announced her departure again.

"We are making a huge announcement. We are kicking something special off -- we are happy to announce that Raven-Symone is now permanently part of The View," Goldberg declared Wednesday.

Raven-Symone -- a frequent guest host on the program -- then came out on the stage, hugged the other women and did a little dance before sitting down.

"I am so happy!" she remarked. "I remember coming on The View when I was 15 years old for The Cheetah Girls... I am very happy to be sitting with these smart, talented mentors. ... You guys, let's have fun!"

Raven-Symone, 29, is best known for her TV work on The Cosby Show, Hangin' with Mr. Cooper, That's So Raven and Empire.