Joy Behar is an American comedian, writer, actress, and co-host who has a net worth of $30 million. Joy Behar rose to prominence as one of the original co-hosts of ABC’s “The View” when it premiered in 1997. Before her television career, she worked as a high school English teacher in New York while pursuing stand-up comedy in the 1980s. Behar developed her comedic skills performing in various New York clubs, eventually becoming a regular on NBC’s “Baby Boom” in 1988. She also hosted her own shows, including “Way Off Broadway” and “The Joy Behar Show” on HLN. Her most notable role has been as co-host of “The View,” where she’s known for her sharp wit, liberal political views, and outspoken personality. Though she briefly left the show in 2013, she returned as a regular co-host in 2015 and continues in this role today.
Joy Behar Early Life
In 1942, Josephine Victoria Occhiuto was born in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. She comes from an Italian Roman Catholic household and is the only kid. She is the daughter of Gino Occhiuto and Rose. Her father was a Coca-Cola truck driver, and her mother was a tailor.
Joy Behar Education
In 1964, Behar graduated from Queens College with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. In 1966, Stony Brook University with an MA in English education. She worked as an English teacher at Lindenhurst Senior High School. She worked as a teacher from the late 1960s until the early 1970s. She also attended the HB Studio to study acting during her free time.
Joy Behar Rise to Fame
Behar joined The View during its inaugural season in 1997. Her wit and candid opinions made her a fan favorite. Over the years, she became known for her dynamic discussions and humor. The show’s diverse co-host dynamics also contributed to its success, allowing for a variety of viewpoints. In 2009, Behar won a Daytime Emmy Award alongside her co-hosts. Her ability to engage viewers with her take on current events solidified her place in the daytime television landscape.
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Joy Behar Career
By the 1980s, Joy Behar had started to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. She started off with production credits on Good Morning America before establishing herself as a stand-up comedian. After performing in various comedy clubs throughout the 1980s, TV appearances soon followedon shows like Baby Boom and Live From Queens. She eventually hosted her own talk show called Way Off Broadway.In the 80s and 90s, Behar also started booking film roles in movies such as Cookie, This is My Life, and Manhattan Murder Mystery, as well as making appearances in HBO comedy specials. Her real breakthrough came in 1997 when she first started appearing on The View as a regular panelist. Eventually, she became a permanent co-host who was famous for presenting up-and-coming comedians. In 2009, Behar won a daytime Emmy Award along with her co-hosts for The View.
Joy Behar Author and Entrepreneur
In addition to her roles on television, Behar has authored several books. Her writing often reflects her experiences in the entertainment world and her views on social issues. This entrepreneurial spirit adds another layer to her income. Behar’s work as an author highlights her desire to connect with her audience beyond the screen.
Joy Behar Personal Life
In 1965, Joy Behar married Joe Behar, a university professor. After a 14-marriage during which the couple had one child, they divorced in 1981. Joy Behar kept Joe’s last name and also retained custody of her child. Later, Joy began a relationship with Steve Janowitz. The couple was married in 2011. Joy Behar is famous for her strong support of the Democratic party.
Joy Behar Real Estate
In 2016, Joy Behar listed her home in East Hampton for $3.8 million. She ultimately accepted $3.2 million. Soon after that sale, Joy paid $4.75 million for a home in Sag Harbor, New York. She listed this home for sale in November 2024 for $10.95 million. In 2017, Behar reportedly spent $2.4 million on a two-bedroom apartment in the Upper West Side of New York City. In 2018, she made a significant profit on her investment after selling the newly renovated apartment for $3.28 million.
FAQs
What is Joy Behar’s net worth?
Joy Behar has an estimated net worth of $30 million.
When did Joy Behar start on The View?
Joy Behar was one of the original co-hosts of The View, which premiered in 1997.
What was Joy Behar’s career before television?
Before her television career, Behar worked as a high school English teacher in New York and pursued stand-up comedy in the 1980s.
Has Joy Behar won any awards?
Yes, Joy Behar won a Daytime Emmy Award in 2009, shared with her co-hosts for The View.
Conclusion
Joy Behar’s career is a testament to her versatility and enduring presence in entertainment. From her early days as a high school teacher and stand-up comedian to becoming a beloved co-host on The View, she has established herself as a sharp-witted and influential figure in American television. Her success extends beyond the screen as an author and entrepreneur, with a strong political voice and a significant impact on daytime TV. With a net worth of $30 million, Behar continues to thrive both professionally and personally, maintaining her position as a prominent and respected media personality.
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