Joy Behar is leaving 'The View'

Behar has been with show since it premiered in 1997

Author: By Breeanna Hare CNN
Published On: Mar 08 2013 09:13:36 AM CST   Updated On: Mar 08 2013 09:55:22 AM CST
Joy Behar
() -

Joy Behar is ready to vacate her seat at "The View's" table.

An ABC representative confirmed to CNN that the veteran TV personality and former HLN host will leave the daytime program at the end of the season.

According to the network, she's been with "The View," which also features Whoopi Goldberg, Sherri Shepherd, Barbara Walters and Elisabeth Hasselbeck, since it premiered in 1997.

As for why Behar's chosen to leave after 16½ years, she said that it "seemed like the right time to move on," ABC reported. Although "The View's" hosting panel has seen plenty of changes over the years, Walters and Behar have been the two mainstays, says The Hollywood Reporter.

"Joy Behar has been instrumental in the success of 'The View' from the very beginning," an ABC spokesperson told CNN. "We wish her all the best in this next chapter, and are thrilled that we have her for the remainder of the season."

According to THR, the 16th season will wrap in August.

  • Copyright 2013 by CNN NewSource. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.