At 82 years old, Joy Behar is a celebrated comedian, writer, actress, and longtime co-host of ABC’s The View. Married to Steve Janowitz since 2011, she is the mother of one child from her first marriage. With a net worth of $30 million, Behar has built a career spanning decades, marked by her sharp wit, outspoken personality, and commitment to her craft.
Key Takeaways
- Net Worth and Career: With a net worth of $30 million, Joy Behar’s career spans stand-up comedy, acting, and television hosting, with her most iconic role being on The View.
- Real Estate Success: Behar’s lucrative investments in properties, including her Sag Harbor home listed at $10.95 million, underscore her financial acumen.
- Personal Life: Joy, married to Steve Janowitz, balances her professional achievements with a fulfilling family life.
- Cultural Impact: As a co-host of The View, Behar has shaped public discourse through humor, wit, and a fearless approach to controversial topics.
Early Life and Education
Born Josephine Victoria Occhiuto on October 7, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, Joy grew up as the only child in a working-class Italian Catholic family. She attended Queens College, earning a B.A. in sociology in 1964, and went on to earn a master’s degree in English Education from Stony Brook University in 1966. During her early years, Joy taught high school English while nurturing her love for performing arts and studying acting.
Career Beginnings
Behar’s foray into the entertainment industry began in the 1980s as a production assistant on Good Morning America. She soon transitioned to stand-up comedy, performing in New York’s comedy clubs. Her comedic talent led to appearances on television shows like Baby Boom and Live from Queens, and she eventually hosted her own talk show, Way Off Broadway.
Rise to Stardom
The turning point in Behar’s career came in 1997 when she joined the inaugural panel of ABC’s The View. Initially appearing as a guest panelist, her quick wit and ability to spark engaging discussions quickly earned her a permanent co-hosting role. Known for her liberal political views and fearless commentary, Joy became a household name, winning a Daytime Emmy Award in 2009 alongside her co-hosts.
Beyond The View, Behar hosted several other shows, including The Joy Behar Show on HLN, Joy Behar: Say Anything! on Current TV, and Late Night Joy on TLC. She has also appeared in films like Manhattan Murder Mystery and This Is My Life and on stage in plays such as The Vagina Monologues.
Personal Life
In 1965, Joy married university professor Joe Behar, with whom she had a daughter, Eve. The marriage ended in 1981 after 14 years, but Joy retained her ex-husband’s last name. After years of dating, she married Steve Janowitz in 2011. Joy is known for her outspoken support of the Democratic Party, often using her platform to advocate for progressive causes.
Real Estate Ventures
Behar’s savvy investments in real estate have contributed significantly to her wealth. In 2016, she sold her East Hampton home for $3.2 million and subsequently purchased a Sag Harbor property for $4.75 million. In late 2024, she listed this Sag Harbor home for $10.95 million, showcasing a substantial appreciation in value. Additionally, Joy bought a two-bedroom apartment on the Upper West Side for $2.4 million in 2017, selling it in 2018 for $3.28 million, further demonstrating her business acumen.
Legacy on The View
After briefly leaving The View in 2013 to focus on stand-up comedy and writing, Behar returned to the panel in 2015 and remains a cornerstone of the show. Her tenure has been marked by candid political debates and her ability to connect with audiences through humor and authenticity. Behar’s role in shaping The View into a cultural touchstone has solidified her legacy in daytime television.
Philanthropy and Influence
Beyond her professional success, Joy Behar is committed to making a difference. She has used her platform to raise awareness on issues such as women’s rights, education, and healthcare. Her comedic insights into political and social topics have resonated with audiences, making her a respected voice in both entertainment and activism.
Conclusion
Joy Behar’s life is a testament to resilience, talent, and staying true to oneself. From her beginnings as a high school teacher to becoming a household name in television, her journey is marked by hard work, passion, and an unrelenting drive for excellence. At 82, Behar continues to inspire with her humor, insight, and dedication, leaving a lasting legacy in entertainment and beyond.