Introduction: Joy Behar Age

Joy Behar Age, a name synonymous with humor, wit, and fearless opinions, has become a household figure in the entertainment industry. Best known for her role on The View, Behar has built a career that spans several decades, from her early days in stand-up comedy to her influential presence on television. In this article, we will dive deep into her life, focusing on Joy Behar age, her career, her personal life, and the journey that has made her one of the most beloved TV personalities in America.

Early Life and Background of Joy Behar

Birth and Family

Joy Behar was born Joy Vogelsang on October 7, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, to her parents, Rose and Gino Vogelsang, both of whom were of Italian descent. Growing up in a working-class family, Behar learned the value of humor and resilience at a young age, both of which would later define her career.

Her early experiences in Brooklyn shaped her view of the world and served as the foundation for her comedic style, which blends sarcasm, sharp wit, and a profound understanding of human nature.

Education

Behar attended Queens College, where she earned a degree in English Education. However, her heart was always drawn to the world of entertainment. After college, she worked as a teacher and briefly pursued a career in education before deciding to follow her passion for comedy. This decision would eventually lead her to the limelight and change the course of her life.

The Early Career of Joy Behar

Stand-Up Comedy Beginnings

Joy Behar’s comedic journey began in the 1970s, when she started performing stand-up comedy in New York City. Her performances at various comedy clubs helped her develop her signature comedic style—one that mixed self-deprecating humor with clever social commentary. During this time, Behar was influenced by the likes of Joan Rivers and Phyllis Diller, both of whom inspired her to take risks in her comedy and not shy away from speaking her mind.

In the early years, Behar performed at clubs like Catch a Rising Star and The Improv, establishing herself as a rising star in the comedy world.

Television Appearances and Breakthrough

In the 1980s, Behar began making appearances on television, with her first major break coming as a guest on “The Tonight Show”. Her distinctive comedic voice and ability to make light of even the most serious issues quickly won her a following.

She also became a regular on “Good Morning America” as a comedic contributor, where her quick wit and humorous perspective on the news made her a fan favorite. However, it was her role in the 1990s that would cement her place in TV history.

The View and Its Impact on Joy Behar Career

Becoming a Co-Host on The View

In 1997, Behar was asked to join the cast of The View, a talk show created by Barbara Walters. Initially, the show featured a panel of women discussing the day’s events, with an emphasis on differing perspectives. Joy Behar quickly became known for her outspoken opinions, her willingness to challenge her co-hosts, and her ability to lighten the mood with her humor.

It didn’t take long for her to become one of the most popular co-hosts of the show, with many viewers tuning in just to hear what Joy had to say. Her opinions were never shy, and whether discussing politics, pop culture, or personal experiences, Behar made sure her voice was heard.

The Success and Recognition of The View

Behar’s role on The View gave her a platform to share her views on feminism, politics, and gender equality, subjects she’s always felt passionately about. She was able to use her humor as a vehicle for discussing issues that mattered, offering a unique perspective on topics from a female point of view. As a result, she became an advocate for women’s rights, always using her voice to speak out against injustices and inequality.

The View has received numerous awards over the years, and Behar’s role in its success cannot be overstated. She helped establish the show as one of the most important platforms for daytime television.

Joy Behar Impact on Television and Culture

As a co-host on The View, Joy Behar has had a significant impact on television and pop culture. She has used her platform to speak about issues such as mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and gender equality. She is widely regarded as one of the most influential women in television history, thanks in part to her ability to seamlessly blend humor and social commentary.

Joy’s straightforwardness and candidness set her apart from many of her peers. She has consistently used her voice to advocate for marginalized groups and challenge traditional societal norms. For many, Behar is not just a TV personality; she is a cultural icon who has contributed greatly to the shaping of modern television.

Joy Behar Personal Life and Relationships

Marriage and Family

Behar has been married twice. Her first marriage was to Joseph Behar, a college professor, in the early 1960s. The marriage lasted for several years, and they had one child together, a daughter named Eve Behar. After their divorce, Joy went on to marry Steve Janowitz, a teacher. They were together for many years before getting married in 2011.

Though Behar has remained relatively private about her personal life, she often jokes about her relationships and family on The View, offering humorous anecdotes about her daughter, husband, and experiences with motherhood.

Political Views and Advocacy

Joy Behar is well-known for her liberal political views and strong opinions on various social issues. Throughout her career, she has used her platform to express her stances on political topics such as healthcare reform, immigration, and climate change. Her outspoken nature has made her a vocal advocate for progressive causes, and she has been unafraid to call out hypocrisy and corruption in politics.

Behar’s willingness to speak truth to power has made her a hero to many on the left while also garnering criticism from those who disagree with her views. Regardless of the opposition, Joy has always remained true to herself, embodying the power of authenticity.

Joy Behar Net Worth

As of 2025, Joy Behar’s net worth is estimated to be around $30 million. Much of her wealth comes from her long-running role as a co-host on The View, where she has been a staple since the show’s inception in 1997. Behar’s successful career in stand-up comedy, her television appearances, and book deals have contributed significantly to her financial success. Additionally, her speaking engagements and media appearances further add to her impressive net worth.

The Legacy of Joy Behar

Joy Behar Impact on Comedy

Throughout her career, Behar has been recognized for her immense contribution to comedy. She has helped redefine what it means to be a female comedian, paving the way for future generations of women in the entertainment industry. Her quick wit and willingness to tackle difficult topics with humor have made her an inspiration for countless comedians, especially those who identify as women.

Behar’s ability to balance humor with social activism has set her apart from many other comedians. She used her comedic talents to challenge the status quo and shed light on issues that many would rather ignore.

Awards and Recognition

Over the years, Joy Behar has received numerous accolades and awards for her work in television and comedy. Some of the most notable include:

• Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host

• Gracie Award for Outstanding Female Lead in a Talk Show

• Recognition from the Anti-Defamation League for her efforts in promoting equality and combating discrimination

Behar’s success is a testament to her perseverance, intelligence, and dedication to both her craft and her values.

Continuing Her Career

As of 2025, Joy Behar is still an active and beloved co-host of The View, where her views continue to resonate with millions of viewers. Even in her 80s, she remains as sharp, funny, and fearless as ever, refusing to slow down or shy away from speaking her mind.

Conclusion: Joy Behar Age and Timeless Influence

At the age of 82, Joy Behar shows no signs of slowing down. Her journey from a young woman in Brooklyn to one of the most respected TV personalities in the world is a testament to her hard work, wit, and determination. Whether through her stand-up comedy, her role on The View, or her advocacy for social change, Joy Behar has solidified her place as a true legend in the entertainment industry.