In a surprising turn of events, Joy Behar, co-host of *The View*, has joined the discussion about leaving the United States alongside Whoopi Goldberg and Megan Rapinoe. During a recent episode, Behar remarked, “I don’t get any respect either,” suggesting that she might be contemplating joining her colleagues in their quest for a more understanding homeland.
Each of these women has experienced significant media attention, often not for universally adored reasons. Megan Rapinoe, a prominent figure in the U.S. women’s soccer team, faced intense criticism following a missed penalty kick in a crucial game. What should have been a minor setback in an otherwise illustrious career became a national point of contention, with critics interpreting the missed goal as indicative of Rapinoe’s alleged distractions and misplaced priorities.
Whoopi Goldberg, known for her blunt and straightforward approach on *The View*, has also faced her share of controversies. Her candidness has earned her a loyal fan base, but her outspoken nature has landed her in hot water multiple times. Similarly, Joy Behar, often seen as the comedic relief on the show, has had her remarks met with mixed reactions, leading to countless memes, talk-show discussions, and even heated family dinner debates. In light of recent announcements, Behar’s feelings of marginalization have become particularly pronounced. “If Whoopi and Megan feel they aren’t respected here, why should I think any differently?” she pondered in a recent interview. Her rhetorical question paints a picture of America that many public figures, especially women, might quietly agree with.
While many people threaten to leave their country following political disappointments or sports defeats, it is rare for celebrities to openly express and act on such desires. However, this trio appears determined to make a statement. Their collective grievances underscore a growing trend in the world of fame: the increasing scrutiny, judgment, and challenges of living under the digital age’s magnifying glass.
The big question now is where they might go. Canada, often the default choice for those declaring intentions to leave America, might feel too close to home. Europe could be a possibility, or perhaps a more remote, exotic location where talk shows and penalty kicks hold little relevance.
This potential move—or even the mere threat of it—is creating a stir. It has prompted think pieces, late-night show monologues, and earnest discussions about how we treat our celebrities. Are we holding them to unrealistic standards? Are we too quick to judge, criticize, and cancel?
The conversations about respect, particularly towards women in the spotlight, are being reignited. Is the expectation for them to be flawless, to never miss a penalty kick, to always say the right thing, realistic or even fair?
While there is a humorous edge to the idea of celebrities banding together to leave their homeland due to feeling underappreciated, there is a kernel of truth beneath the satire. The so-called “Great American Exodus” serves as a reflection on how we perceive, treat, and react to those in the limelight. After all, celebrities may be in the public eye, but they are human beings first. And like all humans, a little respect goes a long way.
