Joy Behar Recounts Catherine Deneuve's Question About Her Sexuality While on The View Set

Joy Behar recounts that Catherine Deneuve inquired whether she was "a lesbian" after Behar trailed the star around The View's set

By M Muzamil Shami

"The 81-year-old marveled, 'She epitomizes the pinnacle of beauty, unparalleled and unmatched,' referring to the French superstar."

Italian women pale in comparison when faced with the urgency of The View cohost Joy Behar's bathroom needs, yet French icons like Catherine Deneuve evidently hold a special place in the 81-year-old comedian's heart.

During the latest installment of the Behind the Table podcast on Wednesday, the seasoned panelist disclosed her deep admiration for the Oscar-nominated Indochine actress, renowned worldwide for her performances in timeless classics such as The Umbrellas of Cherbourg and Belle du Jour. Recalling the actress's previous appearance on The View, the panelist confessed to being so captivated by her presence that she found herself trailing her around the set.

When asked by producer Brian Teta about which famous individuals leave her feeling starstruck, Behar mentioned several names, including President Barack Obama and also Deneuve.

"If you're unfamiliar with her, I recommend searching for The Last Metro on your Apple TV. It's a French film and truly fantastic. She's utterly captivating—arguably the most beautiful presence you'll ever witness, both nationally and globally," Behar expressed. "During her visit, I found myself drawn to her every move. There was a moment when someone questioned her orientation, to which I quipped, 'Well, I am now.'"

Behar did not specify the date of Deneuve's appearance on The View, and the actress' IMDB credits do not mention the talk show. Entertainment Weekly has contacted representatives for both The View and Deneuve to obtain further information.

       Joy Behar and Catherine Deneuve in a photograph by Jenny Anderson/ABC/Getty and Ammar Abd Rabbo/Red Sea Film Festival/AFP/Getty

Though Deneuve may hold Behar's affections—a connection sparked when she met her current husband, Steve, at a nudist colony—the Italian woman Behar referred to as "a bitch" during her 2023 European vacation does not share the same sentiment.

"Among the locals, there were some pleasant folks scattered about. However, there was an incident where I found myself needing to address a woman with an unkind term, but let's set that aside," Behar shared with her cohosts in April of the previous year, upon her return from her trip.

"I communicated in English as she refused to allow me to use the restroom in the first-class lounge," Behar elaborated. "I pleaded, 'Please, just permit me to go!' Then I remarked, 'Listen, please be reasonable.' However, she still declined my request."