Joy Behar Returns to The View After Extended Absence

Joy Behar, cohost of ABC's talk show *The View*, made her return on February 3, 2023, after a six-episode absence. Behar, 83, had not appeared on the show since January 23, with her absence attributed to health issues, as noted by fellow cohost Whoopi Goldberg. Goldberg stated, “We want to let you know Joy is out, she’s not feeling well, so we want her to feel better and get her behind back here.” While Behar did not specify the nature of her illness, her absence included two pre-scheduled days off, as she typically does not appear on Mondays.

Joy Behar returns to 'The View' after missing six episodes after health updateJoy Behar Reveals Her Real Name and How She Was Given Her Nickname in 'Infancy'Joy Behar Returns to ‘The View’ After Week-Long Hiatus But Doesn’t Address Her Absence

Behar's return coincided with a special episode celebrating the upcoming birth of cohost Alyssa Farah Griffin's first child. The episode featured a baby shower theme, and Behar joined her colleagues at the Hot Topics table for the first time in 11 days. This absence marked the longest stretch Behar has been away from the show in recent years, surpassing a previous four-episode absence in November 2022 due to a foot injury.

Joy Behar returns to 'The View' after missing six episodes after health update

During her return, Behar shared a personal story about her name, revealing that her real name is Josephine Victoria. She explained that her Italian grandfather nicknamed her "Joy" from infancy, stating, “From infancy, I was always known as Joy.” Behar humorously cautioned about the implications of naming a child "Joy," noting, “You have to know that ‘Joy’ is a noun, so it always comes up in Christmas and all sorts of ways. Just remember that.” This anecdote resonated with an audience member who was considering "Joy" as a middle name for their child.

Joy Behar Reveals Her Real Name and How She Was Given Her Nickname in 'Infancy'Joy Behar Returns to ‘The View’ After Week-Long Hiatus But Doesn’t Address Her AbsenceJoy Behar returns to 'The View' after missing six episodes after health update

In Behar's absence, the remaining cohosts addressed various topics, including significant cultural events and political issues. For instance, they discussed Bad Bunny's historic Grammy win and the arrest of journalist Don Lemon. Cohost Sara Haines expressed emotional challenges faced by the panelists, stating that the barrage of difficult news sometimes leaves her feeling as though she lacks a "safe space."

Joy Behar returns to 'The View' after missing six episodes after health update

While Behar's health update was limited, her cohosts expressed relief at her return. Goldberg's earlier remarks highlighted the concern for Behar's well-being, emphasizing the camaraderie among the panelists. Behar's absence and subsequent return have sparked discussions about the dynamics of the show and the importance of each cohost's presence.

Joy Behar returns to 'The View' after missing six episodes after health update

• “From infancy, I was always known as Joy,” — Joy Behar

Joy Behar Reveals Her Real Name and How She Was Given Her Nickname in 'Infancy'

• “You have to know that ‘Joy’ is a noun, so it always comes up in Christmas and all sorts of ways. Just remember that.” — Joy Behar

Joy Behar Returns to ‘The View’ After Week-Long Hiatus But Doesn’t Address Her Absence

• “We want to let you know Joy is out, she's not feeling well, so we want her to feel better and get her behind back here,” — Whoopi Goldberg

Joy Behar returns to 'The View' after missing six episodes after health update

Joy Behar's return to *The View* not only marks a personal milestone but also reflects the ongoing evolution of the show's ensemble, highlighting the significance of each member's contributions to the discussions that resonate with viewers.

Joy Behar Reveals Her Real Name and How She Was Given Her Nickname in 'Infancy'