Sherri Shepherd, former co-host of “The View,” is fondly remembering her dear friend and mentor, Bill Geddie, whose passing was recently announced. During a poignant appearance on the ABC talk show on Monday, Shepherd paid tribute to Geddie, who co-created “The View” alongside Barbara Walters and served as one of its executive producers.
Reflecting on the profound impact Geddie had on her life, Shepherd shared how he transformed her career when he invited her to join “The View” in 2007. At that time, she was a single mother, newly divorced, and a stand-up comic with limited knowledge of politics. However, Geddie firmly believed that people would relate to her and encouraged her to find her authentic voice.
Shepherd reminisced about a lighthearted incident during her early days on the show when she inadvertently questioned whether the Earth was round or flat. Geddie’s response, “No, this is ratings, baby,” exemplified his unwavering dedication to embracing diverse viewpoints on “The View,” and he urged her not to apologize excessively.
“The View” took to Instagram on Friday to share the news of Geddie’s passing, paying tribute to his pivotal role as a television pioneer and his cherished position as an executive producer of the show for 17 years. The post also included a heartfelt statement from Geddie’s family, highlighting his significance as a prominent figure in the TV industry and a loving husband and father.
In her own emotional Instagram post, Shepherd expressed her devastation over Geddie’s death, acknowledging his unwavering belief in her talents and his role as a transformative mentor in her life. Throughout the first season of “The Sherri Show,” Shepherd sought Geddie’s advice and encouragement, experiencing firsthand his ability to bring out the best in her.
As Sherri Shepherd mourns the loss of her treasured friend, Bill Geddie’s legacy in the television industry and the lasting impact he had on those he mentored will continue to resonate, serving as a testament to his enduring influence.