Joy Behar is celebrating her 80th birthday — but she’s nowhere near ready for retirement.
“The View” veteran spoke out about her future plans in an interview with People published on Friday, as she marked the milestone day.
“I just signed a contract so I’ll be here for a while,” the comedian defiantly declared. “I have no plans to retire.”
Back in July, ABC told The Post that Behar had inked a new three-year contract that will keep her tied to the network until 2025, refuting a report by the Independent Journal Review that claimed she was gearing up to announce her exit from “The View.”
Speaking with People, Behar fawned over the show, touting its longevity and strong ratings.
“It’s really, you know, something that is an important show in many ways,” she proclaimed of the program, which she joined back in 1997. “Sometimes I don’t believe that, as I’ve been here since the beginning, but we’re the most-watched show in daytime. Most-watched!”
“I’m happy to be a part of it. So no, I’m not going anywhere. I’m having a good time,” she added.
Back in 2020, Behar told reporter Ramin Setoodeh that it was unlikely she would continue on “The View” after her 80th birthday.
“I don’t see myself staying for more [time]. That’s it!” Behar said in the Setoodeh’s best-selling book “Ladies Who Punch: The Explosive Inside Story of ‘The View.’” “I could be wrong, but the chances of that happening … You know, time marches on. I’m not a kid.”
It’s unclear how much money ABC forked over to keep Behar, but the sum could total eight-figures over three years, as she was was reportedly paid $7 million per year as part of her previous deal with the network.
Behar has taken this week off “The View” — seemingly to celebrate her special birthday.
However, the show’s co-stars made sure to recognize the comic’s big day, with Whoopi Goldberg kicking off Friday’s show by stating: “We want to start by wishing Joy a very happy birthday.”
“We will have plenty of celebrating when she gets back here next week,” the “Star Trek: The Next Generation” actress added.
Behar is one of the oldest personalities currently appearing on daytime TV — and her antics still often make headlines.
Earlier this year, she infamously face-planted while walking onto set to take her seat at the show’s table.
“The View” later installed more stable seats for the cast in order to avoid a repeat of the live TV mishap.
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