Television personality Joy Behar, a household name as a longtime co-host of the daytime talk show “The View,” has always been known for her sharp wit and candid commentary. Beyond the spotlight, her personal life tells an inspiring story of love, patience, and resilience. At 82 years old, Behar remains as vibrant as ever, balancing her successful career and a happy marriage to retired schoolteacher Steve Janowitz, whom she married after a remarkable 29-year courtship.
Behar was born on October 7, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York. She first joined “The View” as one of its original panelists in 1997. Though her journey on the show has had its ups and downs, including a brief dismissal in 2013, she returned in 2015, embracing the chance to reconnect with her audience. Reflecting on her departure, Behar revealed that she had grown weary of the show’s routine but later found herself rejuvenated upon rejoining. “I was glad to be fired,” she quipped in an interview, “but I’m glad they took me back. It all worked out in the end.”
Even now, Behar has no plans to retire. She signed a contract extension in 2022, expressing her continued enthusiasm for her role on the show. Celebrating her 81st birthday on air in 2023, she humorously dismissed the milestone, saying, “I’m just happy to still be here.”
Her career success is matched by her enduring partnership with Janowitz, whom she met in the early 1980s. The couple tied the knot in August 2011, choosing an intimate ceremony after nearly three decades together. Their love story is characterized by mutual respect, shared humor, and the occasional squabble. “We don’t argue much, except about one thing: the car,” Behar admitted during a May 2024 episode of the “Behind the Table” podcast.
Driving has become a lighthearted battleground in their relationship. Janowitz, who has autoimmune issues, often critiques Behar’s driving skills, making her nervous behind the wheel. She shared a humorous incident where she accidentally crashed into a farm stand after forgetting to take the car out of drive. Despite these small tiffs, their bond remains strong, built on years of understanding and thick skin. “You can’t take things personally,” Behar explained, crediting their resilience to a shared sense of humor and pragmatism.
Behar’s first marriage to television director Joseph Behar ended in 1981 after 16 years. Together, they had a daughter, Eve Behar, born in 1970. Eve, now an accomplished ceramic artist, is a mother herself, making Joy a proud grandmother to her teenage grandson, Luca. Family remains a central part of Behar’s life, with Eve often sharing glimpses of their close-knit bond on social media. In 2023, Eve posted a heartwarming photo of her parents at an art opening, smiling alongside Luca.
When it comes to her marriage to Janowitz, Behar’s decision to wait so long before walking down the aisle was a conscious one. She once joked that she waited for “all the in-laws to die off” before committing. The couple’s long courtship allowed them to grow together without societal pressures, building a foundation of trust and mutual admiration.
In May 2024, Behar recounted her early days with Janowitz, revealing that she initially hid her career as a comedian from him. “I didn’t want to scare him off,” she laughed. Over time, Janowitz embraced Behar’s dynamic career and vibrant personality, becoming a steadfast source of support.
Despite the demands of her high-profile career, Behar has maintained a grounded perspective on life. Her marriage is a testament to the power of patience and finding humor in life’s challenges. Even their recent trip to Italy, while filled with beautiful moments, highlighted their unique dynamic. Behar joked that ten days together was “too much closeness,” a sentiment many couples can relate to.
Looking back on her journey, Behar’s story is one of reinvention and resilience. From navigating career highs and lows to finding love on her terms, she embodies the spirit of living life authentically. As she continues to thrive both personally and professionally, Joy Behar’s legacy is one of laughter, love, and unwavering determination.