Joy Behar is an American comedian, actress, writer, and television host best known as one of the original co‑hosts of ABC’s daytime talk show The View. Born in 1942, she has built a career that spans stand‑up comedy, acting, writing, and broadcasting. As of 2026, Behar remains a prominent voice in American media, recognized for her sharp wit, outspoken personality, and contributions to entertainment and social commentary.
Joy Behar – Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Josephine Victoria Behar |
| Date of Birth | October 7, 1942 |
| Age (2026) | 83 years |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5′6″ (1.68 m) |
| Occupations | Comedian, Actress, Television Host, Writer |
| Years Active | 1980 – present |
| Notable Work | Co-host of The View (ABC), Joy Behar: Say Anything! (Current TV), Late Night Joy (TLC) |
| Awards/Recognition | Daytime Emmy Award (The View, 2003), multiple nominations |
| Books | Joy Shtick — Or What Is the Existential Vacuum and Does It Come with Attachments? (1999), Sheetzucacapoopoo: My Kind of Dog (2006) |
| Family | Married to Steve Janowitz (2011); one daughter, Eve Behar |
| Net Worth (est.) | $30 million (approx.) |
| Current Status | Active as co-host on The View and public speaker |
Early Life and Family Background
- Full Name: Josephine Victoria Behar
- Date of Birth: October 7, 1942
- Place of Birth: Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Parents: Gino Occhiuto and Rose Occhiuto, Italian‑American immigrants
- Ethnicity: Italian descent
Raised in Brooklyn, Behar grew up in a working‑class family. She attended Queens College, earning a degree in sociology, and later studied English education at Stony Brook University. Before entering entertainment, she worked as an English teacher.
Career Beginnings
Behar began her career in the 1980s as a stand‑up comedian, performing in clubs across New York City. Her comedic style blended observational humor with social commentary, quickly earning her recognition. She appeared on Good Morning America and began hosting comedy shows, which led to opportunities in television.
Breakthrough: The View (1997–2026)
Joy Behar became a household name as one of the original co‑hosts of The View, created by Barbara Walters in 1997.
- Known for her candid opinions and humor, Behar became a central figure on the panel.
- She left the show in 2013 but returned in 2015, continuing as a co‑host through 2026.
- Her presence has been integral to the show’s success, blending comedy with serious discussions on politics, culture, and social issues.
Acting Career
Behar has appeared in films and television series, including:
- Manhattan Murder Mystery (1993, Woody Allen)
- This Is My Life (1992)
- Guest appearances on sitcoms such as Baby Boom and Spin City
Her acting career, while secondary to her work as a host and comedian, demonstrates her versatility.
Writing Career
Behar has authored books that combine humor with social insight, including:
- Joy Shtick — Or What Is the Existential Vacuum and Does It Come with Attachments? (1999)
- Sheetzucacapoopoo: My Kind of Dog (2006, children’s book)
Her writing reflects her comedic voice and ability to connect with audiences across genres.
Personal Life
Joy Behar married college professor Steve Janowitz in 2011 after a long relationship. She has one daughter, Eve Behar, and is also a grandmother. Behar often shares anecdotes about her family life, blending humor with relatability.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Behar supports causes related to:
- Women’s rights
- LGBTQ+ equality
- Arts and education initiatives
She has used her platform to advocate for social justice and cultural awareness.
Net Worth (2026)
| Source of Income | Estimated Contribution |
|---|---|
| Television Hosting | $20 million |
| Comedy & Acting | $5 million |
| Writing & Publishing | $3 million |
| Investments | $2 million |
| Total Net Worth (2026) | ≈ $30 million |
Awards and Recognition
- Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host (The View)
- Recognition from comedy and broadcasting organizations
- Honored for contributions to daytime television and women in media
Legacy and Influence
Joy Behar’s career represents resilience, humor, and outspoken commentary. As one of the longest‑serving co‑hosts of The View, she has shaped conversations on politics, culture, and entertainment for nearly three decades. Her legacy lies in her ability to blend comedy with serious discourse, making her a unique and influential figure in American media.
Conclusion
From stand‑up comedy beginnings to daytime television stardom, Joy Behar’s biography reflects a journey of perseverance, wit, and cultural impact. Her work as a comedian, actress, writer, and host has made her a respected voice in entertainment. In 2026, she continues to inspire audiences with her humor, authenticity, and fearless commentary.
FAQ
1. Who is Joy Behar?
Joy Behar is an American comedian, television host, writer, and actress best known as one of the original co-hosts of The View. She is recognized for her humor, political commentary, and outspoken personality.
2. How old is Joy Behar?
Joy Behar was born on October 7, 1942, which makes her 83 years old as of 2026.
3. What is Joy Behar famous for?
Joy Behar is famous for co-hosting The View, where she discusses politics, entertainment, and social issues. She is also known for her stand-up comedy background.
4. What is Joy Behar’s net worth?
Joy Behar’s estimated net worth is approximately $30 million, earned through television hosting, comedy, writing, and media appearances.
5. What is Joy Behar’s salary on The View?
Reports estimate Joy earns around $7 million per year for her role on The View, making her one of the highest-paid daytime TV personalities.
6. How tall is Joy Behar?
Joy Behar is approximately 5 feet 6 inches (1.67 meters) tall.
7. Is Joy Behar married?
Yes, Behar is married to Steve Janowitz. The couple married in 2011 after being together for many years.
8. Does Joy Behar have children?
Yes, Behar has one daughter, named Eve, from her previous marriage.
9. Where is Joy Behar from?
Joy was born in Brooklyn, New York, United States, and has often referenced her New York roots in her comedy and television appearances.
10. Did Joy Behar leave The View?
Behar briefly left The View in 2013 but later returned in 2015 as a permanent co-host.
11. What books has Joy Behar written?
Behar has written several books, including The Great Gasbag and Joy Shtick, featuring humor and personal stories.
12. What was Joy Behar’s career before television?
Before becoming a TV star, Joy Behar worked as a teacher and later became a stand-up comedian, which helped launch her successful television career.