Joy Behar Returns to The View and Reveals the Real Reason for Her Week-Long AbsenceThe View co-hosts seated at their desk.

Fans of The View were ecstatic to see Joy Behar back on the show after her unexpected absence. The 82-year-old host had been missing for a week, prompting many viewers to wonder if she was leaving the show or dealing with some personal issues. Today, Behar returned to her familiar seat at the panel, explaining the real reason behind her time away from the talk show.

What Happened During Joy’s Absence?

Last week, The View fans were left puzzled by Behar’s absence, with many expressing concern on social media about the iconic host’s sudden departure. During a taping of the show last Thursday, Whoopi Goldberg, 69, addressed Behar’s absence, telling viewers, “Joy is not here. We wish her a happy opening night. It’s tonight.” Whoopi was referring to Behar’s off-Broadway play, My First Ex-Husband, which premiered last week at New York’s Mac-Haydn Theater. Joy wrote the production and also performs in it, alongside notable stars such as Tovah Feldshuh, Susie Essman, and Adrienne C. Moore.

Behar hadn’t been on the show since Monday, February 3, with former co-host Star Jones filling in during her absence. However, the mystery surrounding her departure has now been cleared up, and it’s not entirely what fans expected.

Joy Behar’s Reveal: “I Was Sick”Lala Kent and the hosts of "The View" at the show's table.

When Behar returned to The View, she finally revealed the truth behind her absence. While many had speculated about her off-Broadway play, Behar admitted that she had been ill and unable to perform her duties on the show.

“I was sick!” Behar confessed, though she didn’t elaborate on the specifics of the illness. She added that she had been unwell throughout the week, which coincided with the opening of her play. While fans were initially concerned about her health, they were relieved to hear that Behar was feeling better and back at work.

Success of the Play

Despite her brief illness, Behar shared her excitement about My First Ex-Husband, explaining that it has been going well, with audiences responding positively. “It’s going really well, people seem to like it! It’s been a fun ride,” Behar said with a smile. She also noted that she would continue performing in the play until February 23, before another actress takes over the role.

The View’s New Weekend ShowJoy Behar speaking on The View.

In addition to Behar’s return, The View has been expanding its reach. The popular daytime talk show, which first premiered in 1997, has now been given an extra time slot on Saturdays, thanks to its growing popularity. The show’s new weekend addition, The Weekend View, airs on ABC News Live, the streaming platform, and features the same panel from Friday’s episode. This half-hour show marks a significant expansion for The View, which is now in its 28th season.

However, The View‘s loyal viewers will notice that Whoopi Goldberg will not appear on the weekend edition. The Hollywood star, who is an integral part of the show, only works Monday through Thursday, meaning fans will have to wait until the new week to catch her.

Looking Ahead

As The View continues to evolve and expand its programming, Joy Behar’s return marks another chapter in the show’s storied history. Behar has been a staple of the show since its early days in 1997 and took a brief break in 2013 before returning in 2015. Now, with a new weekend slot and continued success, The View is solidifying its position as one of the most influential daytime talk shows in America.

The show’s mix of passionate debate, current affairs, and celebrity gossip continues to captivate audiences, and Behar’s return is a reminder of the enduring appeal of the program. Whether discussing politics or pop culture, The View remains an essential part of America’s daytime television lineup. Fans can expect more lively conversations, candid opinions, and, of course, plenty of Joy Behar in the weeks ahead.