Joy Behar, born Josephine Victoria Occhiuto on October 7, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, is a celebrated American comedian, television host, and actress. With a career spanning over four decades, she is best known for her sharp wit and unfiltered opinions. Did you know Joy Behar started as a receptionist on Good Morning America before becoming a stand-up comedian in the 1980s? Her big break came in 1997 when she joined The View as one of the original panelists. Beyond television, Behar has authored books, hosted radio shows, and even received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Her outspoken liberal views and advocacy for women's rights have made her a beloved figure in entertainment.
Key Takeaways:
- Joy Behar, born in Brooklyn, began her entertainment career in the 1980s, leading to her role as a co-host on "The View" and her own talk shows. She's a strong advocate for women's rights and has a quick wit that endears her to audiences.
- Joy Behar, a versatile entertainer, has excelled in stand-up comedy, television, radio, and writing. Her career is marked by significant milestones, including a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host.
Early Life and Family
Joy Behar's journey began in Brooklyn, New York, where she was born into an Italian-American family. Her upbringing in a close-knit community shaped her early experiences and values.
- Joy Behar was born Josephine Victoria Occhiuto on October 7, 1942.
- Her father, Joseph Occhiuto, worked as a bus driver.
- Her mother, Helen M. Behar, was a homemaker.
- Joy has two siblings: a brother named Joseph and a sister named Lisa.
Education
Joy's educational background laid the foundation for her future career in entertainment and media.
- Behar attended St. Saviour High School for Girls in Brooklyn.
- She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in drama from Queens College.
Career Beginnings
Joy's career in show business started with humble beginnings, gradually leading her to the spotlight.
- She began as a receptionist and later a producer on Good Morning America in the early 1980s.
- Her entry into entertainment was a natural progression from her background in teaching and theater.
Stand-Up Comedy
Joy's sharp wit and humor quickly caught the attention of audiences, paving the way for her success in comedy.
- Behar started her stand-up comedy career in the 1980s.
- Her performances led to various television appearances, showcasing her comedic talent.
Television Appearances
Joy's television career includes numerous appearances that helped establish her as a prominent figure in the industry.
- In the late 1980s, she appeared on ABC's Good Morning America and The New Show.
- She hosted a variety talk show on Lifetime Television called Way Off Broadway, featuring Larry David as a writer and performer.
Radio Hosting
Joy's versatility extended to radio, where she engaged audiences with her talk show.
- In the early 1990s, Behar hosted a talk show on 77 WABC radio in New York City.
Film Roles
Joy's acting career includes minor roles in several films, adding to her versatility as an entertainer.
- She appeared in movies such as Cookie, This Is My Life, and Manhattan Murder Mystery.
The View
One of Joy's most notable achievements is her role as a co-host on the popular daytime talk show The View.
- In 1997, Behar became one of the original panelists of The View, co-created by Barbara Walters.
- Initially appearing only on days when Walters was off, Joy eventually became a permanent co-host.
Daytime Emmy Award
Joy's contributions to The View earned her and her co-hosts significant recognition.
- In August 2009, Behar and the other co-hosts won a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host.
The Joy Behar Show
Joy's talent as a talk show host led to her own program on CNN's HLN.
- In June 2009, she announced The Joy Behar Show, which aired for two years before being canceled.
Joy Behar: Say Anything
Joy continued her talk show career with another program on the Current TV network.
- Joy Behar: Say Anything premiered on September 4, 2012, and ended in August 2013 after Current TV was sold to Al Jazeera.
Late Night Joy
Joy's late-night talk show provided a unique format for engaging with audiences.
- Late Night Joy premiered on TLC on November 4, 2015, featuring intimate chats with friends in her New York City apartment.
Memoir
Joy has shared her personal stories and reflections through her writing.
- Behar has written a memoir titled Joy’s Life Lessons, offering insights into her life and career.
Children’s Books
Joy's literary endeavors also include writing for children.
- She authored two children’s books: SheetzuCacaPoopoo: My Kind of Dog and another untitled book.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Joy's contributions to the entertainment industry have been recognized with prestigious honors.
- In 2015, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Outspoken Liberal Views
Joy is known for her candid commentary and strong advocacy for various causes.
- Behar is outspoken about her liberal views and support for women’s rights.
Strong Advocacy for Women’s Rights
Joy's commitment to feminist causes is evident in her public statements and discussions.
- She has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights throughout her career.
Quick Wit and Charisma
Joy's personality traits have made her a standout in the entertainment industry.
- Her quick wit and charismatic presence have endeared her to audiences.
Family Support System
Joy values the relationships in her life, cherishing the love and support she receives.
- Her strong support system has been crucial in her personal and professional journey.
Personal Reflections
Joy's memoir offers a deeper understanding of her experiences and values.
- In Joy’s Life Lessons, she shares personal reflections on her upbringing and career.
Career Milestones
Joy's career is marked by several significant milestones.
- From stand-up comedy to The View, each milestone has contributed to her growth as a comedian and television host.
Television Impact
Joy's influence on television extends beyond her role on The View.
- Her presence on various shows has shaped the way women are represented in media.
Comedy Specials
Joy's comedic talent has been showcased in several HBO specials.
- She appeared in One Night Stand and Women of the Night 2.
Radio Career
Joy's radio hosting further honed her skills in engaging audiences.
- Her talk show on 77 WABC radio in New York City showcased her versatility.
Film Roles Continued
Joy's acting career includes additional film roles that demonstrate her versatility.
- She has appeared in movies beyond her initial roles, adding to her acting portfolio.
Television Appearances Continued
Joy's television career includes numerous appearances beyond The View.
- She has been a regular on NBC’s Baby Boom and hosted Live from Queens.
Variety Talk Show
Joy's early television career included hosting a variety talk show.
- In 1987, she hosted Way Off Broadway on Lifetime Television, featuring Larry David.
Current TV Hosting
Joy's hosting career extended to the Current TV network.
- She began hosting Viewpoint with Eliot Spitzer in July 2012 before launching her own show.
Current TV Show Cancellation
Joy's show on Current TV ended after the network was sold.
- Joy Behar: Say Anything! ended in August 2013 after Current TV was sold to Al Jazeera.
TLC Talk Show
Joy's late-night talk show on TLC provided a unique format for engaging with audiences.
- Late Night Joy aired from November 4, 2015, featuring intimate chats with friends.
Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host
Joy's contributions to The View earned her and her co-hosts significant recognition.
- In August 2009, Behar and the other co-hosts won a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host.
The Joy Behar Show Cancellation
Despite its success, Joy's show on HLN was canceled after two years.
- The final broadcast of The Joy Behar Show aired on December 15, 2011.
Current TV Sale
The sale of Current TV led to the end of Joy's show on the network.
- Joy Behar: Say Anything! ended after Current TV was sold to Al Jazeera.
TLC Talk Show Cancellation
Joy's late-night talk show on TLC was short-lived.
- Late Night Joy was canceled after five episodes.
Memoir Publication
Joy's memoir offers a detailed account of her life and career.
- Joy’s Life Lessons is set to be published by Regalo Press in 2025.
Group Therapy Experience
Joy shares personal experiences in her memoir, including her time in group therapy.
- She details her interactions with a therapist named Magda, who was struggling with senility.
Comedic Style
Joy's comedic style is characterized by her quick wit and sharp tongue.
- Her ability to deliver punchlines has made her a beloved figure in comedy.
Television Impact Continued
Joy's influence on television extends beyond her role on The View.
- Her appearances on various shows have shaped the way women are represented in media.
Radio Hosting Continued
Joy's radio career further honed her skills in engaging audiences.
- Her talk show on 77 WABC radio in New York City showcased her versatility.
Film Roles Continued
Joy's acting career includes additional film roles that demonstrate her versatility.
- She has appeared in movies beyond her initial roles, adding to her acting portfolio.
Television Appearances Continued
Joy's television career includes numerous appearances beyond The View.
- She has been a regular on NBC’s Baby Boom and hosted Live from Queens.
Variety Talk Show Continued
Joy's early television career included hosting a variety talk show.
- In 1987, she hosted Way Off Broadway on Lifetime Television, featuring Larry David.
Joy Behar: A Remarkable Journey
Joy Behar's career is nothing short of impressive. From her early days as a stand-up comedian to becoming a beloved co-host on The View, she's made her mark in the entertainment world. Her quick wit, sharp tongue, and unfiltered opinions have resonated with audiences for decades. Behar's strong advocacy for women's rights and her ability to adapt to various formats have solidified her as an influential figure in television. Whether through her memoir, children's books, or numerous TV appearances, Joy Behar continues to captivate and inspire. Her journey, filled with milestones and achievements, showcases a life dedicated to entertaining and making a difference. Joy Behar's legacy in comedy and television remains impactful, reminding us of the power of humor and candid conversation.
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