Today marks a special milestone as Joy Behar turns 82, and there’s no denying her incredible legacy in television. Despite the passing of years, Behar has shown no signs of slowing down, continuing to captivate audiences with her sharp wit and engaging personality. As she celebrates another year, Behar remains as vibrant as ever, and there’s no indication that she plans to stop anytime soon.
A Television Icon: The View and Beyond
Joy Behar’s journey in television began long ago, but it was her role on The View that solidified her place as a household name. Born on October 7, 1942, Behar’s contributions to the daytime talk show are undeniable. Having been with The View since its inception in 1997, Behar became one of the original panelists and has helped shape its success. Her candid opinions, humor, and strong presence made her a standout on the show.
In recent years, Behar has had a less consistent presence on the show. She left in 2013 but made a return in 2015. Reflecting on her departure, Behar shared, “I was glad to be fired. I basically was sick of the show at that point for some reason, I don’t even remember why.” Despite her time away, she clarified that she never had intentions of retiring, and her return only reaffirmed her passion for the work. She expressed her gratitude, saying, “I’m happy to be a part of it. So no, I’m not going anywhere. I’m having a good time.” Behar’s genuine connection with her audience was evident when she celebrated her birthday live on air last year, reaffirming her importance to both the show and its viewers.
A Personal Life Full of Love and Laughter
Behar’s personal life is as colorful as her career. Over the years, she has been candid about her experiences with marriage, motherhood, and family. Married twice, Behar has built a loving and enduring relationship with her second husband, Steve Janowitz, a retired school teacher. They tied the knot in 2011 after being together for nearly 30 years. For Behar, the long delay in marriage was not about a traditional wedding day but about making the commitment to someone who had been her partner for so long.
The secret to their successful relationship lies in their shared sense of humor and their ability to keep things lighthearted. Behar humorously noted that she kept her profession as a comedian a secret from Janowitz for the first year of their relationship, a playful testament to their easygoing dynamic. Reflecting on their decision to marry after nearly three decades together, Behar remarked, “We did it for the sex,” before later admitting that as she matured, she sought emotional and legal support from her partner. Over 13 years later, the couple remains happily married, embodying the joy that comes with a deep, committed relationship.
Motherhood and Grandmotherhood: A New Chapter
While Behar has thrived in her career and marriage, her greatest joy may lie in her role as a mother and grandmother. She welcomed her daughter, Eve Behar, in 1970, during her first marriage to Joseph Behar. Eve, now an artist, is married to Alphonso Scotti, and they have a young son, Luca. Behar has embraced her role as a grandmother with open arms, frequently sharing delightful moments with Luca on social media.
At just eight months old, Behar describes Luca as “brilliant,” noting how talkative he is already. Her admiration for her grandson is evident in the loving way she speaks about him. These heartwarming moments, shared with her followers, reflect Behar’s deep connection with her growing family and her appreciation for the joy they bring her.
Wishing Joy Behar a Happy 82nd Birthday
As we celebrate Joy Behar’s 82nd birthday, it’s clear that she has lived a life full of personal and professional achievements. She continues to inspire with her wit, honesty, and dedication to both her work and family. Today, we join in wishing her the best on this special occasion, hoping for many more years of happiness and success. Let’s celebrate Behar’s remarkable journey and share in the joy of this milestone.