Comedy legend Joan Rivers has passed away in New York, she was 81 years old.
The stand up comedian, who was famous for her love of plastic surgery as well as her comedic powers, had stop breathing during an operation last week and had been placed on life support.
Rivers’ daughter Melissa released a statement confirming her passing.
“It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother, Joan Rivers,” said Melissa in the statement.
“She passed peacefully at 1:17pm surrounded by family and close friends. My son and I would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Mount Sinai Hospital for the amazing care they provided for my mother.
“Cooper and I have found ourselves humbled by the outpouring of love, support, and prayers we have received from around the world. They have been heard and appreciated.
“My mother’s greatest joy in life was to make people laugh. Although that is difficult to do right now, I know her final wish would be that we return to laughing soon.”
Rivers was born Joan Molinsky, the daughter of Jewish immigrants to New York. She worked in a variety of jobs in advertising and fashion before moving into acting and comedy. In the 1950’s she appeared in theatre production playing a lesbian opposite a then unknown Barbra Streisand.
Rivers had a successful career as a comedian and television host. She got her first big break in the 1960’s when she was a regular guest on Johnny Carson’s ‘The Tonight Show’. Carson was her mentor. Later in the 1980’s she launched a rival late night show, which led to a falling out with the TV host. Rivers was banned from the show that had made her famous, she didn;t appear on it again until 2013.
Performing comedy for over seven decades Rivers is acknowledged as a legend in the field, she was the first female comedian to have a solo show at Carnegie Hall.
Since 2010 Rivers has been the anchor of ‘Fashion Police’ on the E! Network and hosted many red carpet telecasts from award ceremonies critiquing fashion. She filmed a ‘Fashion Police’ special just days before going into hospital.
OIP Staff
