Michelle Collins to join 'The View'

WASHINGTON, July 9 (UPI) -- Just days after the departure of Rosie Perez on The View, comedian Michelle Collins has been tapped to fill the seat.

Collins, who had sat in during the departure of Rosie O'Donnell earlier this year, has been selected to fill Perez' seat, Entertainment Weekly reported. Collins who has been on the show multiple times due to the ever changing rotation of talent, was selected due to her quick wit and fast responses.

The announcement about Collins was held off to give Perez a proper on-air send off. Perez was tearful during her departure announcement, Deadline reported.Collins would be fresh talent on the show, the comedian has had gigs on Chelsea Lately, the Today show.

The addition of Collins introduces new talent to the struggling show, which has lost its footing after Barbara Walters retired. Since then, the show has had revolving door of hosts.

Producers have been looking to add commentators who could fill spots during absences or when hosts decide to leave altogether. Stacy London from TLC's What Not To Wear is one name that has been tossed around, as well as Molly Sims.

The View is about to wrap its 18th season, and will start its next season with veterans Whoopi Goldberg, Nicolle Wallace, Raven-Symoné and Michelle Collins.