Joy Behar, born Josephine Victoria Occhiuto on October 7, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, is an iconic American comedian, television host, actress, and writer best known as a sharp-witted and opinionated founding co-host of the ABC daytime talk show The View. Her career, which spans decades across stand-up comedy, television, and publishing, is defined by her fearless commentary and distinctive comedic voice.

Raised in a working-class Italian-American family in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Behar initially pursued a career in education. She earned a bachelor's degree in sociology from Queens College and a master's in English education from Stony Brook University, working as an English teacher in the late 1960s. A growing passion for performance led her to the world of stand-up comedy in the 1970s, where she honed her act in New York City clubs. This foundation in live comedy became the bedrock of her persona—direct, observational, and unafraid to tackle social and political issues.

Her big break arrived in 1997 when she was selected by creator Barbara Walters as one of the original co-hosts of The View. Behar quickly became a fan favorite for her liberal perspectives and quick comedic retorts, engaging in the show's signature "Hot Topics" discussions. She remained a central figure on the program for over sixteen years, departing in 2013 but making a highly celebrated return in 2015. Her work on the show earned her a Daytime Emmy Award in 2009. Parallel to her daytime success, Behar headlined several talk shows of her own, including The Joy Behar Show on HLN and Joy Behar: Say Anything! on Current TV.

Beyond talk shows, Behar's career includes acting roles in films like Cookie and Man on the Moon, and television series such as The Larry Sanders Show and 30 Rock. She is also a published author, releasing the political humor book The Great Gasbag: An A–Z Study Guide to Surviving Trump World in 2017. In her personal life, she was married to college professor Joe Behar from 1965 until their divorce in 1981; she later married Steve Janowitz in August 2011. Joy Behar continues to co-host The View, remaining a vital and influential voice in American media, celebrated for her longevity, intellect, and unwavering commitment to speaking her mind.