Joy Behar is a name synonymous with sharp wit, fearless opinions, and trailblazing longevity in American entertainment.

With a career spanning more than four decades, Behar has made her mark as a comedian, actress, author, and most notably, a co-host on ABC’s long-running talk show The View.

Her bold voice and unapologetic humor have made her a household name—and a figure impossible to ignore.

The Early Years: Comedy Roots and Breaking In

Born Josephine Victoria Occhiuto in Brooklyn, New York, in 1942, Joy Behar began her professional life as a high school English teacher.

But it was her passion for comedy that ultimately pushed her to pursue a career in entertainment.

In the early 1980s, she hit New York City’s stand-up comedy scene, performing at clubs while juggling her role as a single mother.

Her candid, observational style—often centered around politics, relationships, and everyday absurdities—resonated with audiences.

She broke into television with appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and Good Morning America, marking her as a rising comedic voice in a male-dominated industry.

Becoming a Television Powerhouse: The View and Beyond

Behar’s big break came in 1997, when Barbara Walters tapped her as one of the original co-hosts of The View.

Her role on the show gave her a national platform to combine her comedy chops with political and social commentary, quickly establishing her as a standout panelist.

Over the years, Behar became known for her no-holds-barred style and willingness to take on controversial topics—whether it was politics, religion, or pop culture.

Her tenure on The View hasn’t been without friction, but that’s precisely what made her a cornerstone of the show: she brought both humor and heat to daytime television.

Aside from The View, Joy hosted her own programs including The Joy Behar Show on HLN and Late Night Joy on TLC, further showcasing her versatility and drawing loyal audiences beyond daytime TV.

Milestones and Moments That Defined Her Career

1997: Becomes an original co-host of The View—a groundbreaking daytime talk show featuring all women, which would go on to win multiple Daytime Emmy Awards.

2009: Launches The Joy Behar Show on HLN, providing her with a solo platform for interviews and commentary.

2010: Named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People.

2015: Returns to The View full-time after a two-year hiatus, proving her enduring relevance and popularity.

2022: Celebrates her 80th birthday on-air, reaffirming her commitment to staying in the conversation, both culturally and politically.

Breaking Barriers and Redefining Age in Media

As one of the oldest active hosts on television, Behar has broken the mold for what it means to be a woman in media beyond 60.

She’s defied ageist stereotypes, proving that relevance isn’t defined by youth.

She continues to be a sharp political voice, particularly in turbulent times, and a comedic force who’s not afraid to ruffle feathers.

She also helped pave the way for other female comedians and media personalities, carving out space in an industry where outspoken women were often sidelined.

Her success, influence, and longevity speak volumes about the importance of authenticity and resilience.

Off-Camera Life and Legacy

Off-screen, Joy Behar is known for her love of theater, literature, and family.

She married her longtime partner, Steve Janowitz, in 2011 after a nearly 30-year relationship.

Despite her larger-than-life TV presence, her personal life is grounded in stability and intellectual curiosity.

Behar is also a published author, with works ranging from humor to children’s books, and she remains an active voice in public discourse, especially on issues related to women’s rights, education, and democracy.