Rosie O'Donnell returning as co-host on 'The View'

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Comedian Rosie O'Donnell is returning as a co-host on "The View," an ABC spokesperson confirmed on Thursday.

The rumors had been swirling for days. O'Donnell will be back on the talk show as Sherri Shepherd and Jenny McCarthy exit.

The 52-year-old was on "The View" in September 2006, replacing Mereditch Vieira, but it was a brief run. She left the show in May 2007 following a heated discussion with co-host Elizabeth Hasselbeck.

It's not yet known who else will join the panel, but "Variety" reports that Meghan McCain, daughter of Sen. John McCain, is in serious talks to join the show.