In a moment that has shocked The View fans and left the media world buzzing, Joy Behar has finally addressed the rumors surrounding her future on the iconic daytime talk show.
After weeks of speculation about her potential retirement, Behar has set the record straight, leaving viewers with no doubt about her plans moving forward. The 80-year-old co-host, a beloved fixture on The View for nearly three decades, has made it clear she’s not going anywhere—at least not anytime soon.
But what prompted this sudden wave of retirement rumors, and why has this long-time TV personality—known for her quick wit, fierce opinions, and candid takes—felt the need to speak out? The answers may surprise you, and they go beyond just a typical announcement. Here’s the story behind the dramatic exchange that has everyone talking.
The Rumors That Sparked Concern
It all began when Ana Navarro, one of Behar’s fellow co-hosts on The View, posted an Instagram story that left fans wondering whether Behar was stepping away from the show. The post showed Navarro and co-host Chacha Cardenas visiting Behar after the Season 26 finale, with Navarro writing in the caption: “It’s only been two days since @theviewabc Season 26 ended, and we missed @joyvbehar already.”
The casual mention of missing Behar, followed by a seemingly innocent remark about the upcoming return for Season 27, caused fans to jump to conclusions. Some speculated that Behar might not be returning, prompting a flurry of comments asking if she was leaving the show.
“Is she leaving?” asked The View fan and actress Holly Robinson Peete in the comments, a question that led to even more uncertainty. Fans quickly began to voice their concerns, expressing confusion about the unclear message. Was Behar leaving? Or was she just taking a break?
Navarro, ever the clarifier, responded promptly: “No! We are on hiatus. Season 27 starts after Labor Day.” But by then, the seeds of doubt had already been planted, and fans continued to wonder about Behar’s future on the show.
Behar’s Bold Response to the Critics
In response to the growing rumors, Behar did what she does best—she didn’t mince words. During a recent episode of The View: Behind the Table podcast, she opened up to the show’s executive producer, Brian Teta, about the speculation regarding her retirement.
“People are always asking me, ‘Is it true Joy’s retiring? Is Joy walking out?’” Teta began, to which Behar replied with her signature candor. “First of all, people like me don’t retire. I’m a creative person… I’m a writer. There’s no such thing as retiring. You mean, will I quit this show?”
With that simple yet definitive statement, Behar put any retirement rumors to rest. She didn’t just confirm that she had no plans of leaving—she made it clear that her creativity and love for her job are still very much alive. “I don’t want them taking me out of here feet first,” she quipped, adding humor to a situation that had been the subject of growing concern.
Joy Behar’s Role as Moderator
One key aspect of the discussion during the podcast was Behar’s deep satisfaction with her role on The View, particularly as moderator. In recent months, Behar has filled in for Whoopi Goldberg as moderator while Goldberg has been absent due to illness. And while it’s no secret that The View has seen changes in its on-air dynamic, Behar seems to have found a new appreciation for the lead role on the panel.
“Honestly, I enjoy moderating,” Behar said in the podcast. “It’s no secret that I like it. I had my own show many times, and I like being in that position.”
This candid admission gives fans a glimpse into why Behar continues to thrive on the show—because she enjoys the challenges and power that come with taking the lead. With her experience and expertise, she can comfortably handle the weight of moderating, even if the job occasionally comes with its share of tough moments.
