Josephine Victoria “Joy” Behar, born on October 7, 1942, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York City, is an acclaimed American comedian, actress, and television host. Best known as a co-host on the daytime talk show The View, Behar has been a prominent figure in television and comedy for decades. At 82 years old, she continues to captivate audiences with her wit, humor, and thought-provoking commentary.
In this article, we explore Joy Behar’s journey, including her age, family, career highlights, personal life, and notable achievements.
Joy Behar Short Details
| Full Name | Josephine Victoria Occhiuto |
|---|---|
| Profession | Comedian, Actress, Television Host |
| Hometown | Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York |
| Nationality | American |
| Date of Birth | October 7, 1942 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 82 |
| Education | BA in Sociology (Queens College), MA in English Education (Stony Brook University) |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Spouses | Joe Behar (m. 1965–1981), Steve Janowitz (m. 2011) |
| Children | 1 (Eve Behar Scotti) |
| Net Worth | $30 million (2025) |
Early Life and Education
Born to Italian-American parents in a Roman Catholic family, Joy Behar grew up as the only child of Rose Carbone, a seamstress, and Gino Occhiuto, a truck driver for Coca-Cola. Her upbringing in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, shaped her resilience and sharp humor.
Behar earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Queens College in 1964 and a Master of Arts in English Education from Stony Brook University in 1966. Before entering the entertainment industry, she worked as an English teacher on Long Island.
Career Highlights
Early Career
Joy Behar began her career in the entertainment industry in the 1980s, working as a receptionist and later as a producer on Good Morning America. She soon ventured into stand-up comedy, performing at clubs and making television appearances on The New Show and Good Morning America.
In 1987, she hosted her first variety talk show, Way Off Broadway, which featured Larry David as a writer and performer.
The View
In 1997, Joy Behar became one of the original co-hosts of The View, a groundbreaking daytime talk show created by Barbara Walters. Known for her candid opinions and humor, Behar became a fan favorite and earned several Emmy nominations. She left the show in 2013 but returned in 2015 and continues to be a prominent voice on the panel.
Key milestones on The View:
- Won a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host in 2009.
- Became known for her segments, including “Joy’s Comedy Corner.”
Other Television Ventures
Joy Behar hosted several shows alongside her role on The View:
- The Joy Behar Show on HLN (2009–2011)
- Joy Behar: Say Anything! on Current TV (2012–2013)
- Late Night Joy on TLC (2015)
Acting Career
Behar appeared in films such as Manhattan Murder Mystery and Hall Pass and voiced a character in Ice Age: Continental Drift. She has also performed in theater, including the Off-Broadway play Me, My Mouth and I.
Personal Life and Family
Joy Behar married Joe Behar, a college professor, in 1965, and they had one daughter, Eve Behar Scotti. The couple divorced in 1981. Joy later married Steve Janowitz in 2011 after a long relationship.
Behar is also a proud grandmother to her grandson, Luca. She resides in The Hamptons and the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
Net Worth and Income Sources
Joy Behar’s estimated net worth in 2025 is $30 million, accumulated from her long career in television, comedy, and writing.
| Net Worth (2025) | $30 million |
|---|---|
| Primary Income Sources | Television, Comedy |
| Books | Humor and Children’s Literature |
Lesser-Known Facts About Joy Behar
- Joy’s first career was as a high school English teacher.
- She studied acting at the HB Studio in New York City.
- Behar is an accomplished author, with works including The Great Gasbag and Joy Shtick.
- She was a panelist on Bravo’s Celebrity Poker Showdown.
- Joy has been outspoken about her political views and is a registered Democrat.
- She has performed in iconic plays like The Vagina Monologues.
- Joy’s comedic inspiration comes from her upbringing in a working-class family.
- She once guest-hosted Larry King Live.
- Her 2015 show, Late Night Joy, featured conversations with friends in her apartment.
- She was almost cast in a sitcom before committing to The View.
FAQs About Joy Behar
Q: How old is Joy Behar?
A: Joy Behar is 82 years old, born on October 7, 1942.
Q: What is Joy Behar’s net worth?
A: Her estimated net worth is $30 million as of 2025.
Q: How long has Joy Behar been on The View?
A: Joy has been a panelist on The View for 25 of its 28 years on air.
Q: Does Joy Behar have children?
A: Yes, she has one daughter, Eve Behar Scotti.
Q: What other shows has Joy Behar hosted?
A: Joy hosted The Joy Behar Show on HLN and Joy Behar: Say Anything! on Current TV.
Q: Has Joy Behar written any books?
A: Yes, she has authored multiple books, including The Great Gasbag and Joy Shtick.
Q: Where does Joy Behar live?
A: She resides in The Hamptons and Manhattan’s Upper West Side.
Conclusion
Joy Behar’s career spans comedy, television, and theater, making her a versatile and enduring figure in the entertainment industry. Her sharp wit, fearless opinions, and commitment to meaningful dialogue have solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in daytime television. At 82, Joy continues to inspire audiences with her humor and intellect.
NOTE: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to verify details independently.
