Bye for Now, Joy Behar! “The View” Icon Steps Away, Two Familiar Faces to Fill In

After decades on air, Joy Behar, the beloved and outspoken host of The View, is taking an extended leave — and fans are feeling the void already.

At 83, Joy isn’t slowing down — she’s trading the co-host desk for the West End stage! She’ll be traveling to Paris this week before heading to London to star in her play, My First Ex-Husband, at the Boulevard Theatre. “We have Jackie Hoffman and I, the two American women talking, then two British actresses. Doesn’t that sound like fun?” Joy shared on The View’s podcast Behind the Table.

While Joy’s away, fans won’t be left hanging. Sheryl Underwood and tech journalist Kara Swisher will step in to keep the conversation lively, and Whoopi Goldberg is adjusting her schedule to host on Fridays.

This isn’t the first time Joy has taken a break. Earlier this year, she stepped aside due to illness, and in November, a foot injury kept her from several episodes. But her legacy is undeniable: Joy has been with The View since its 1997 debut, briefly leaving only during 2013–2015, making her the longest-serving host in the show’s history.

Her play, My First Ex-Husband, debuted in New York City in February 2025 to glowing reviews, and now London audiences will get a taste of her stage brilliance.

While her exact return date is still under wraps, insiders expect Joy to resume hosting by mid-June — just in time to bring her signature wit and charm back to the desk.

 Fans: Who’s excited to see Joy back on The View? Or will you enjoy the guest hosts in the meantime?