Bethenny Frankel Fires Back at Joy Behar After Criticizing Her Appearance: A Rant Against Ageism and Body Shaming

In a fiery and emotional Instagram post, former Real Housewives of New York City star Bethenny Frankel responded to a swipe taken at her by The View co-host Joy Behar. Frankel, who recently made a stunning appearance at the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show, shared her thoughts on Behar’s remarks about her body, expressing frustration and disappointment over the public criticism. The confrontation has sparked widespread discussion about ageism, body image, and the expectations placed on women in the media—particularly those over a certain age.

The Incident That Sparked the Backlash

The drama began when The View co-hosts discussed Frankel’s candid comments about her appearance at the Sports Illustrated event. Frankel had admitted, in a behind-the-scenes moment, that the glamorous look she showed on the runway was the result of extensive preparation—something that’s common in the modeling world but often glossed over by public figures. Frankel said, “None of us looked that way two hours before. It took a lot of work and a glam team.”

However, Behar, known for her sharp tongue, took issue with Frankel’s admission, commenting, “I appreciate her candor, but she has fake boobs.” The remark was quick, pointed, and left many viewers wondering whether Behar’s comment was rooted in genuine critique or just another instance of body shaming.

For Frankel, Behar’s response didn’t sit well. “So, Joy Behar took a swipe at me on The View,” she said, starting her Instagram rant. “Whoopi [Goldberg] mentioned that I was talking about the show, saying that none of us looked that way two hours prior, and it took a lot of work and a glam team. And Joy’s response was, ‘I appreciate her candor, but she has fake boobs.’”

Frankel didn’t just leave it there—she responded in a way that made it clear this wasn’t just about body image but about the larger issue of women being criticized, particularly those in their 50s, for embracing their physicality.

The Response: Frankel Defends Her Body and Challenges Ageism

The 54-year-old entrepreneur and reality TV star, who is known for her no-nonsense attitude, fired back on social media, explaining that her breasts, contrary to Behar’s comment, were not fake. “These are a lift from like 15-20 years ago,” Frankel clarified. “I had very large, big boobs in high school that were saggy, floppy, and this is actually a lift, Joy.”

But the body-shaming wasn’t the main point of her message—it was the broader issue of how society, and public figures like Behar, treat women of a certain age. Frankel continued her rant by calling out the culture that perpetuates ageism and criticism of women, particularly those over 40. “The View does show that women in their 40s, 50s, and older can live their lives freely with happiness and joy, and we’re not washed-up, miserable older women,” she said, making a clear distinction between herself and Behar, who, in Frankel’s view, seemed to represent an outdated view of women growing older.

In a moment of raw honesty, Frankel added, “I actually feel sorry for Joy that she hasn’t lived her life or doesn’t seem to be living her life with any joy. You have to be really miserable to take a swipe at something that is literally self-deprecating and leveling the playing field.”

Frankel’s words were not just a defense of herself but a broader call for women to embrace their age and bodies without shame. She emphasized that there’s nothing wrong with celebrating one’s physicality and acknowledging the hard work behind it.

The Bigger Picture: Addressing Ageism in the Media

Frankel’s response wasn’t just a personal defense—it was an opportunity to address a larger societal issue that affects women in entertainment and media: ageism. As women get older, especially in the public eye, they are often expected to shrink or hide their physical attributes and appearance, as if aging automatically equates to fading from relevance. Frankel’s defiance of this norm, particularly in her post-50s career, is both a rebellion against these expectations and a powerful reminder of how women are continuously judged for their physical appearance.

In her post, Frankel called attention to the fact that she, and other women of a certain age, are often expected to “prove” themselves by looking younger or diminishing their presence. This relentless scrutiny, especially when it comes to body image, is an issue that women across industries face.

“I’m proud to be a size 10. Imagine that! You can always turn the channel if you’re offended by my huge legs,” Frankel continued, highlighting the toxic culture of criticism. The post wasn’t just a clapback at Behar’s comments—it was a statement of self-acceptance and a call for others to embrace their bodies as they are.

Her Journey to Body Confidence: Overcoming Criticism

This isn’t the first time Frankel has been outspoken about body image and self-love. Over the years, she has shared her own battles with self-esteem and the pressure to maintain a certain image in a world obsessed with appearance. She recalled being teased for her “curvy” figure as a teenager, and the way these childhood experiences shaped how she viewed her body. Yet, Frankel’s journey has been one of personal growth, learning to love herself despite the harsh words of others.

Her candidness about her struggles with weight, self-image, and body shaming has made her an advocate for women’s confidence, especially for those who are constantly under pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty. Her recent post shows just how far she’s come—from a woman struggling with her body to one who is now unapologetic about owning it.

Bethenny Frankel’s Legacy: A Role Model for Women

Frankel’s fiery response to Joy Behar’s comments isn’t just about defending her body—it’s about reinforcing the idea that women of all ages should be free to live their lives on their own terms. She has long been an advocate for self-regulation and balance in her diet and fitness routines, proving that a healthy lifestyle isn’t about extremes but about consistency. Whether she’s indulging in her favorite foods or maintaining a fitness routine that works for her, Frankel emphasizes that it’s about creating a sustainable lifestyle that makes her feel good about herself—not about trying to conform to anyone else’s idea of beauty.

In a world where women often feel the need to shrink or conform to societal expectations, Frankel’s boldness in embracing her physicality and career is nothing short of inspiring. She reminds women that they don’t need to apologize for their bodies, their choices, or their successes. Instead, they should embrace their power, celebrate their journeys, and shut down anyone who tries to tear them down.

Conclusion: A Fierce Defense of Women’s Rights to Own Their Bodies

Bethenny Frankel’s response to Joy Behar’s body-shaming comment serves as both a defense of herself and a larger stand for women everywhere. In a world where women are constantly told how they should look, behave, and age, Frankel’s message is clear: embrace who you are, and do so unapologetically.

Her decision to speak out isn’t just about her; it’s about empowering women to take control of their narratives, reject ageism and body-shaming, and live their lives with joy, confidence, and pride. As she continues to carve out her own path in the entertainment world, her message will no doubt resonate with many who are tired of being judged based on outdated and unrealistic standards.

Bethenny Frankel may have been the target of a cruel comment, but she turned that negativity into a powerful message of self-love, resilience, and unapologetic confidence. And for that, she is an inspiration to many.