Joy Behar is a household name in American television, best known for her wit, humor, and unapologetic opinions. Over the decades, she has cemented her position as one of the most prominent talk show hosts, comedians, and actresses.
Her influence extends beyond entertainment into political and cultural commentary, making her one of the most recognizable figures in modern media. This article dives deep into Joy Behar’s biography, career highlights, net worth, family life, age, and her most notable television shows.
Who is Joy Behar
Joy’s Behar is an American comedian, actress, and television host best known as a co-host of ABC’s daytime talk show The View. Born in 1942 in Brooklyn, she built a successful career blending humor with sharp political commentary. Beyond television, she is also an author, performer, and influential cultural voice, inspiring generations with her bold personality.
Quick Facts About Joy Behar
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Josephine Victoria Behar |
| Stage Name | Joy Behar |
| Date of Birth | October 7, 1942 |
| Age (2025) | 82 years old |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Queens College, Stony Brook University |
| Profession | Comedian, Actress, Talk Show Host |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $30 million |
| Famous For | Co-host on The View |
Joy Behar Biography and Early Life
Born Josephine Victoria Behar on October 7, 1942, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York, Joy grew up in an Italian-American household. Raised by her mother, Rose, and father, Gino Occhiuto, she inherited both resilience and humor, traits that would later define her career. From a young age, Joy displayed a knack for storytelling and comedy, which made her popular among peers and teachers alike.
After completing her high school education, she pursued higher studies at Queens College, City University of New York, where she graduated with a degree in sociology. Later, she earned a Master of Arts in English education from Stony Brook University. Joy’s early career wasn’t in showbiz; she initially worked as an English teacher before transitioning to the world of comedy and entertainment.
Career Beginnings and Rise to Fame
Joy’s Behar’s professional journey started not in entertainment but in education. She worked as a high school English teacher before deciding to explore her passion for comedy. In the late 1970s, she took her first steps into the entertainment industry as a stand-up comedian in New York clubs.
Her charm, wit, and ability to tackle controversial topics with humor quickly set her apart. During the 1980s, she expanded her repertoire by working as a receptionist and later as a producer at Good Morning America. It was during this time that she honed her television skills and built connections within the industry.
In 1987, Behar made her television debut on The New Show, a short-lived NBC program. She later appeared on Live from Queens and had small acting roles in films such as Manhattan Murder Mystery (1993), directed by Woody Allen.
However, her major breakthrough came in 1997 when she joined the panel of The View, a daytime talk show created by Barbara Walters. Behar became one of the original co-hosts and quickly established herself as a fan favorite.
Joy Behar net worth
Joy Behar’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at around $30 million, built from her long-standing role on The View, where she reportedly earns $7–10 million annually. Additional income comes from her comedy tours, acting roles, book sales, and guest appearances. Her financial success also includes investments in New York real estate, reflecting her career longevity.
Joy Behar on The View
The View has been the cornerstone of Joy’s Behar’s television career. The talk show, known for its blend of current events, political debates, and celebrity interviews, provided Behar with the perfect platform to showcase her comedic timing and bold opinions.
She co-hosted the show from its inception in 1997 until 2013, when she temporarily left. In 2015, she rejoined the panel and has remained an integral part of the show since then. Her ability to engage in heated debates, particularly on political issues, while still keeping the atmosphere lively with humor, is what sets her apart.
Other Television and Acting Roles
While The View remains her primary claim to fame, Joy Behar has been involved in numerous other projects:
- The Joy Behar Show (2009–2011): A CNN Headline News program where she had her own platform to discuss politics, pop culture, and interviews.
- Joy Behar: Say Anything! (2012–2013): A talk show aired on Current TV, highlighting her candid commentary.
- Late Night Appearances: Joy has been a guest on Late Night with David Letterman, The Tonight Show, and The Oprah Winfrey Show.
- Acting Roles: She has appeared in movies such as Cookie (1989) and This Is My Life (1992) and TV shows like Baby Boom and Spin City.
Behar has also lent her voice to animated series, including Ice Age: Continental Drift (2012), where she played Eunice.
Comedy and Writing Career
Joy’s Behar never abandoned her roots in comedy. She performed stand-up in comedy clubs across New York, often using her personal life as inspiration for jokes. Her sharp comedic timing and ability to blend humor with social commentary made her a beloved figure.
In addition to performing, she authored several books, including
- Joy Shtick—or What Is the Existential Vacuum, and Does It Come with Attachments?
- Sheetzucacapoopoo: My Kind of Dog
- The Great Gasbag: An A-to-Z Study Guide to Surviving Trump World
These works highlight her satirical edge and her talent for connecting with readers through humor and honesty.
Joy Behar’s Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Joy Behar’s net worth is estimated at $30 million, largely from her role on The View, earning $7–10 million annually. Additional income comes from books, comedy tours, acting, and guest appearances. With real estate investments in New York, her success reflects her long-standing career and adaptability in the entertainment industry.
Personal Life and Family
Joy Behar’s personal life includes her first marriage to Joseph Behar, with whom she shares a daughter, Eve, a ceramic artist. In 2011, she married longtime partner Steve Janowitz after nearly 30 years together. Now a grandmother in 2025, Joy often shares family stories, expressing pride in their achievements and blending them into her comedy.
Joy Behar blackface
Joy Behar once faced controversy when an old photo resurfaced of her dressed as a “beautiful African woman” at a Halloween party, sparking accusations of blackface. The incident was widely criticized, though Behar defended it as a tribute rather than a mockery. The debate highlighted ongoing conversations about cultural sensitivity and racial representation in media.
Joy Behar age
Joy Behar was born on October 7, 1942, making her 82 years old in 2025. Despite her age, she continues to play an active role on television, especially as a co-host of The View. Her long career, humor, and outspoken personality have made her a respected figure, inspiring generations of comedians, hosts, and entertainers worldwide.
Joy Behar fired
Joy’s Behar has faced multiple rumors about being fired from The View due to her outspoken political views and heated on-air debates. However, despite controversies, she has remained a central figure on the show. Her bold personality often sparks speculation, but producers and audiences recognize her value, keeping her as one of the show’s longest-running co-hosts.
Joy Behar’s Age and Legacy
At 82 in 2025, Joy’s Behar remains active in television and media. Her legacy reflects not only career longevity but also her fearless voice in an industry that often discourages outspoken women. She has paved the way for female comedians and talk show hosts, continuing to inspire future generations with her boldness and influence.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout her career, Joy Behar has received several accolades:
- Daytime Emmy Award (2009): For Outstanding Talk Show Host with The View co-hosts.
- Gracie Award: Recognizing exemplary programming created by women.
- Numerous nominations and industry recognition for her impact on daytime television.
Her fearless personality has earned her a unique place in American pop culture.
Joy Behar’s Influence on Pop Culture
Joy Behar is more than just a TV host; she is a cultural commentator. Her ability to merge humor with social and political issues has made her a go-to voice in American households. Whether it’s tackling controversial political figures or sharing comedic takes on everyday life, Behar’s influence continues to shape conversations across generations.
Joy Behar arrested at airport
There is no record of Joy Behar ever being arrested at an airport. Over the years, false rumors and internet hoaxes have circulated about such incidents, but they remain unverified and misleading. Behar continues her career without any confirmed arrests, focusing on her role on The View and her work as a comedian, writer, and television personality.
Future Endeavors
As of 2025, Joy Behar has no plans to retire from The View. However, she has hinted at spending more time with her family and possibly writing more books. Regardless of what the future holds, her fans can be certain that Joy will continue to leave a mark with her humor and candor.
FAQs
Q1. How old is Joy Behar?
Ans: Joy Behar will be 82 years old in 2025, having been born on October 7, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York.
Q2. What is Joy Behar’s net worth?
Ans: Joy Behar’s net worth is estimated at around $30 million in 2025, with earnings primarily from The View, books, and comedy projects.
Q3. Who is Joy Behar married to?
Ans: Joy Behar is married to Steve Janowitz, whom she wed in 2011 after nearly 30 years of partnership.
Q4. Does Joy Behar have children?
Ans: Yes, Joy Behar has one daughter, Eve Behar, who is a professional ceramic artist.
Q5. What TV shows is Joy Behar famous for?
Ans: Joy Behar is best known as a co-host on The View. She also hosted The Joy Behar Show and Joy Behar: Say Anything!.
Q6. Has Joy Behar written any books?
Ans: Yes, Joy Behar has authored several books, including Joy Shtick and The Great Gasbag.
Q7. Is Joy Behar still on The View?
Ans: Yes, Joy Behar is still on The View in 2025. Despite occasional rumors of her departure or retirement, she continues to be one of the show’s longest-serving co-hosts. Her sharp humor, outspoken views, and fearless commentary keep her a central
