Joy Behar was Born …:
… on October 7, 1943, as Josephina Victoria Occhiuto.
Growing up with Joy:
Joy grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and attended high school and college in and around Manhattan. She received her bachelor’s degree in sociology from Queens College and her master’s in English education from the State University of New York at Stony Brook.
Joy’s First Job:
Though there were surely one or two prior, Joy started out as both a receptionist for Good Morning America and a high school educator.
The Early Years:
Joy’s entertainment career began on the comedy circuit, performing a conversational routine delivered from a feminist’s point of view, to audiences across the country. A brush with death pushed Joy to pursue comedy full time, which eventually led to a radio show and the fill-in co-host spot on The View.
Becoming a Talk Show Host:
Joy began with The View as a part-time fill-in for Barbara Walters, when ever the venerable journalist and show co-creator was not able to co-host the show. Eventually Joy became a regular co-host, and Barbara simply joined the four regular View panelists whenever time allowed.
What Does the Future Hold?:
Life is good for Joy on The View, and it is doubtful she’ll leave for some time. After that, she could fall back on her stellar career in comedy, maybe transition to acting, or any number of pursuits.
And Just for Fun:
- Joy has a daughter, Eve.
- She appeared alongside Woody Allen in Manhattan Murder Mystery.
- Along with co-host Rosie O’Donnell, inspires ill-feelings from Donald Trump, as noted in his book, How to Get Rich.
