Barbara Walters says Elisabeth Hasselbeck not leaving 'The View'

News of Elisabeth Hasselbeck’s departure from “The View” may have been exaggerated.

Though word that Hasselbeck wouldn’t be back for the series’ 17th season came out over the weekend, a panel member disputed that on this morning’s show.

 “There are no plans for Elisabeth to leave this show,” creator Barbara Walters said Monday. “The truth is we love her … and beyond that, we value and appreciate her point of view.”

A “US Weekly” poll found viewers found her “too extreme and right wing,” and said people didn’t watch the show because of her. The “US Weekly” report said they told her that her contract would not be renewed.

“Elisabeth Hasselbeck is a valued member of ‘The View’ and has a long- term contract,” said a statement from a show rep.

Walters also praised Behar, who is actually leaving after this season.

Walters will be the last original member of the daytime talker, which originally also featured Meredith Vieira, Star Jones and Debbie Matenopoulos in 1997. Walters has been part- time lately, after suffering from chicken pox and a concussion.

The current “View” season will take the existing panel (also including Sherri Shepherd, Whoopi Goldberg and Barbara Walters) through August.