Joy Behar, a name synonymous with wit, humor, and candid commentary, has become a mainstay in the world of daytime television. From her roots as a high school teacher to becoming one of the most recognized faces on The View, Joy’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Let’s take a closer look at the life, career, and net worth of this iconic comedian and talk show host.
A Glimpse into Joy Behar’s Early Life
Born Josephine Victoria Occhiuto on October 7, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, Joy Behar grew up as the only child in a working-class Italian Roman Catholic household. Now 81 years old, Joy has often spoken about how her upbringing shaped her sense of humor and resilience.
After completing high school, she attended Queens College, where she earned a B.A. in sociology in 1964. She went on to obtain an M.A. in English Education from Stony Brook University in 1966. Joy spent her early career teaching high school English in New York, but her passion for comedy and acting was already brewing.
From Stand-Up Comedy to TV Stardom
Joy began pursuing stand-up comedy in the 1980s, performing in clubs across New York City while also working behind the scenes on Good Morning America. Her comedic talent quickly gained attention, leading to appearances on shows like Baby Boom and Live From Queens. She also hosted her own talk show, Way Off Broadway, during this time.
Her film career saw her appearing in movies such as Cookie, This Is My Life, and Manhattan Murder Mystery. However, Joy’s true breakthrough came in 1997 when she joined the original panel of The View, ABC’s groundbreaking daytime talk show created by Barbara Walters. Joy’s sharp wit, political insights, and no-holds-barred opinions quickly made her a fan favorite.
Joy Behar’s Net Worth and Salary
As of 2024, Joy Behar’s net worth is estimated to be $30 million. A significant portion of her wealth comes from her tenure on The View, where she reportedly earns a salary of $7 million per year. Beyond the talk show, Joy has hosted other programs, including The Joy Behar Show on HLN, Joy Behar: Say Anything! on Current TV, and Late Night Joy on TLC.
Joy’s success is not limited to television. She’s also a bestselling author, having penned books like Joy Shtick and The Great Gasbag: An A-to-Z Study Guide to Surviving Trump World. These ventures have further cemented her status as a multifaceted entertainer.
Family and Personal Life
Joy Behar’s personal life has been as dynamic as her career. In 1965, she married Joe Behar, a university professor, and the couple welcomed their daughter, Eve Behar, during their 14-year marriage. Although they divorced in 1981, Joy retained Joe’s last name.
After her divorce, Joy found love again with Steve Janowitz. The couple dated for over two decades before tying the knot in 2011. Joy has often joked about their long courtship, proving her humor extends to every facet of her life.
Joy’s Real Estate Ventures
Joy Behar has also made savvy investments in real estate. In 2016, she sold her East Hampton home for $3.2 million and later purchased a stunning property in Sag Harbor, New York, for $4.75 million. She listed the Sag Harbor home for sale in November 2024, with an asking price of $10.95 million, reflecting the appreciation of her investment.
In 2017, Joy purchased a two-bedroom apartment on the Upper West Side of Manhattan for $2.4 million. She sold the renovated apartment in 2018 for $3.28 million, further demonstrating her knack for profitable real estate transactions.
Awards and Legacy
Throughout her career, Joy has received numerous accolades, including a Daytime Emmy Award in 2009 for Outstanding Talk Show Host alongside her co-hosts on The View. Her impact on daytime television is undeniable, with her candid discussions and humor making her a standout in a competitive field.
Joy’s contributions extend beyond entertainment. As a vocal supporter of the Democratic Party, she’s used her platform to advocate for political causes, ensuring her influence resonates both on and off the screen.
