Bethenny Frankel Fires Back at Joy Behar After ‘The View’ Remarks: “I Feel Sorry for Her”

In a dramatic and fiery response, Bethenny Frankel, the former Real Housewives of New York star, has clapped back at The View co-host Joy Behar after Behar took a jab at her appearance during a recent episode of the daytime talk show.

Frankel, 54, wasn’t having any of it when Behar mocked her comments regarding the hard work behind her appearance at a recent fashion show. What followed was a tense war of words that highlighted a deeper issue of body image, aging, and the constant scrutiny women face in the public eye.

The Controversial Remarks

The controversy began when Frankel appeared on a runway for the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit event in Miami. Afterward, she explained in an interview that the models—including herself—went through extensive glam processes to get runway-ready, highlighting the efforts that go into the polished, picture-perfect images seen on social media and in fashion magazines.

Behar, known for her biting humor, commented on Frankel’s remarks during The View. When discussing Frankel’s admission that the models had undergone significant preparation before hitting the runway, Behar quipped, “I appreciate her candor, but her boobs are still fake.” This comment didn’t sit well with Frankel, who wasted no time in firing back.

Bethenny’s Fiery Response

In a TikTok video posted days later, Bethenny Frankel responded directly to Behar’s comment, calling out the co-host for her remarks. “These are a lift, from like 20 years ago, maybe 15, 20 years ago,” Frankel said, referencing her breast lift. She added that the point of her original comment was to highlight the hard work that goes into creating the images we see on runway shows and in magazines, and not to focus on her body.

But Frankel’s words quickly turned into a scathing critique of Behar herself. “What really bothered me was how Joy’s reaction illustrated what happens when you mock someone who has put in the effort to look a certain way. The reality is, this isn’t about me; it’s about showing that women of a certain age—my age, older—can still live their lives with joy and not be made to feel inferior or irrelevant,” Frankel said, her tone growing more pointed.

She didn’t stop there. “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,” Frankel continued. “You have to be really miserable to take a swipe at something that is literally self-deprecating.”

Frankel’s powerful statement was a reminder that body image and the scrutiny of women’s appearances are still highly politicized topics. Her message resonated with many who felt that Behar’s comment was not just a simple joke but a reflection of deeper, more damaging stereotypes about women—particularly older women in the public eye.

Joy Behar’s Response: A Mixed Reaction

Behar’s remarks were met with laughter from the audience and her co-hosts during The View, but Frankel’s words struck a chord with many viewers, leading to widespread discussion. Frankel’s message about the struggles of women who are judged based on their appearance, particularly older women, immediately gained traction on social media.

While Behar has not directly responded to Frankel’s remarks, her comment has opened up an ongoing discussion about aging and body image in the public sphere. Many people, especially women, have expressed their frustration with the constant judgment that accompanies aging, particularly in industries like television and fashion, where youth is often prized over experience and wisdom.

The Bigger Picture: Women and Aging in the Public Eye

Frankel’s response isn’t just about defending her own body or appearance; it’s about challenging the broader narrative around aging women in the media.

In an industry where women are often expected to maintain a youthful appearance, Frankel’s message is a call for authenticity and self-love. She emphasized that the glam process involved in her appearance is not just about vanity, but about reclaiming control over how women are perceived in a world that constantly scrutinizes them.

“You have to be really miserable to take a swipe at something that is literally self-deprecating,” Frankel stated, underscoring her belief that women who age gracefully and confidently should be celebrated, not belittled. This sentiment resonated deeply with fans who feel that women’s contributions, especially those who are no longer in their 20s or 30s, are often dismissed.

For Frankel, the issue of self-image and public perception goes beyond her own experience. She sees the larger issue as part of the societal challenges that all women face, especially those in the public eye. In fact, she framed her own comments as a defense not only for herself but for all women in entertainment, fashion, and media who are tired of being reduced to their physical appearance.

Miley Cyrus and Family Feuds

Interestingly, Frankel’s comments come at a time when another member of the Cyrus family, Miley Cyrus, has also been addressing similar issues. In a podcast interview earlier this year, Miley spoke candidly about the family dynamics that have caused tension, especially with her father, Billy Ray Cyrus. Miley opened up about how difficult it was for her family, particularly her mother, Tish, after Billy Ray’s tumultuous marriage and divorce.

Miley’s attempt to mediate the family’s struggles by offering an olive branch to both her parents reflects a growing shift in how celebrities are dealing with family tension. Miley’s honest reflections on her own struggles within her family show the importance of healing and communication, something that many women, especially those in public-facing roles, can relate to.

The Fallout: Divisive Reactions

While Bethenny Frankel’s powerful critique of Behar garnered praise from many who agreed with her message, others felt that she was using the opportunity to lash out at a fellow TV personality. Some fans of The View have criticized Frankel for turning a simple remark about her appearance into a larger battle about aging and women’s self-worth.

On the other hand, her supporters have hailed her as a voice for women who are tired of being reduced to their physical appearances. They argue that women should be able to embrace their age and beauty without being judged or mocked for their efforts to maintain a public image. They also pointed to Frankel’s vulnerability in addressing these issues as a sign of her strength and authenticity.

“Finally, someone is standing up to the pressure to conform!” one fan commented on social media. “Bethenny’s message is long overdue.”

A Broader Movement: Advocating for Women’s Self-Worth

Frankel’s outspoken stance on body image and aging is part of a larger movement within the entertainment industry to challenge societal standards of beauty. Women like Frankel and Miley Cyrus are making it clear that they will not let their worth be defined by a number on a scale or the years that have passed since their prime.

In a society that often demands women conform to unrealistic expectations of youth and beauty, Frankel’s public declaration is a powerful message. It’s a reminder that women of all ages should be able to thrive in their careers and be respected for their talents and contributions, rather than scrutinized for their appearance.

Final Thoughts: Empowering Women to Define Their Own Worth

Bethenny Frankel’s stand against Joy Behar’s comments is a call to action for women everywhere: Stop letting society dictate your value. Women, especially older women, deserve to be seen for who they are, not just for how they look. Frankel’s words serve as a powerful reminder that authenticity, self-love, and defiance against societal standards are key to breaking free from the constraints that limit women’s growth and potential.

As the conversation around aging and body image continues to evolve, Frankel’s courageous voice will undoubtedly continue to inspire women to embrace their true selves and reject the superficial measures of worth that have so long been imposed on them. It’s time to celebrate the strength, wisdom, and beauty that comes with age—and it’s time for women like Frankel to lead the charge.