Television history is about to turn a page.

After more than 25 years of sharp wit, unfiltered opinions, and unforgettable moments, the iconic Joy Behar has officially confirmed her departure from The View—and fans are both heartbroken and stunned by the surprise she has in store for her last episode.

“It’s Time”: Joy Confirms Her Final Show

In a heartfelt but characteristically humorous announcement during Monday’s live broadcast, the longest-serving panelist in The View’s history finally addressed swirling rumors about her future on the show.

“I’ve made my decision,” Joy said with a soft smile. “My final episode will be at the end of this season—[date redacted pending official confirmation]. I’ve had the ride of a lifetime, but it’s time to let the next generation speak up.”

The announcement was met with audible gasps from the live audience and teary reactions from her co-hosts, including Whoopi Goldberg and Sunny Hostin.

A Legacy Like No Other

Behar first joined The View when it launched in 1997 as one of its original panelists. She remained a central figure even through cast shakeups, political firestorms, and her own brief departure from 2013 to 2015.

Whether you agreed with her opinions or not, Joy Behar brought consistent humor, depth, and intelligence to the table, often balancing the panel with her unique blend of comedic timing and pointed political critique.

“No one does it like Joy,” Whoopi Goldberg said through tears. “You are the soul of this show. You’re irreplaceable.”

The Exit Plan That Has Everyone Talking

While fans have long speculated about Joy’s future, no one was prepared for what she announced next.

Rather than a quiet goodbye, Joy is planning a week-long farewell celebration filled with special guests, surprise reunions, and what she called her “favorite View moments of all time.”

Sources confirm the farewell week will feature:

Celebrity guests who clashed with or admired Joy over the years (names under wraps for now)
Archival flashbacks to Joy’s most viral debates and one-liners
A comedic roast-style tribute featuring both current and former co-hosts
And in a twist no one saw coming: a live stand-up performance by Joy during her final minutes on-air

“If I’m going out, I’m going out with laughs,” she quipped. “This is still a comedy show, isn’t it?”

Fans React: “This Is the End of an Era”

Within minutes of the broadcast, social media exploded with reactions. On X (formerly Twitter), #ThankYouJoy and #TheViewLegend trended nationwide.

“Say what you want about The View, but Joy Behar carried that show for decades. I’m crying.”
“Joy is leaving?! It won’t be the same. She made mornings worth watching.”
“She’s the last of the OGs. We just witnessed history.”

Clips of her best debates—particularly her legendary political showdowns and viral one-liners—began circulating, reminding viewers of her cultural impact.

What’s Next for Joy?

Joy Behar isn’t retreating from public life entirely. In her farewell announcement, she hinted at a few exciting post-View projects, including:

A memoir, which is reportedly near completion
A possible comedy tour or one-woman show
More guest appearances on news and political commentary platforms

“I’m not going away, I’m just going somewhere else,” she told the audience. “You’ll see me again—hopefully with fewer camera angles.”

At 81, Joy says she’s “ready for more sleep, less stress, and maybe a few more martinis.”

The View’s Future: Who Will Fill Joy’s Seat?

ABC has not yet named a replacement, and insiders suggest the show may not rush the decision.

“You don’t replace Joy Behar. You reshape the panel around her absence,” said one network executive anonymously.

Rumors have swirled about a rotating guest-host format in the fall, allowing producers to test on-air chemistry before choosing a permanent new panelist.

Names like Ana Navarro, Yvette Nicole Brown, and even former co-host Rosie O’Donnell have been floated by fans as potential candidates.

A Television Trailblazer

Joy Behar’s departure marks the end of an era—not just for The View, but for daytime television as a whole. As one of the few women in broadcasting to consistently speak her mind unapologetically for over two decades, she’s become both a feminist icon and a lightning rod for political debate.

“Joy gave women permission to be funny, fierce, and fearless,” said former co-host Meghan McCain. “Whether we agreed or not, I always respected that.”

Her colleagues across ABC and beyond are expected to participate in tribute packages airing during her final week, celebrating her contributions to media, politics, and women’s voices on TV.