Joan Rivers — who made the world laugh for over 50 years with her jokes, put-downs and one-liners — has died in NYC … a week after her heart suddenly stopped beating during vocal cord surgery. She was 81.
Joan’s daughter Melissa Rivers took her mom off life support so she could pass comfortably in a private room.
Rivers is widely credited for opening doors for countless female comediennes. She broke through in a big way during her appearances on “The Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson.
She also famously enraged Carson by accepting a gig to host a competing late night show on FOX. Carson never spoke to her again.
She was universally adored by fellow comedians, including fellow legend Don Rickles, who once said about her … “Joan is not only a very intelligent lady, but extremely masterful at comedy timing. Sharing the stage with her has always been a joy for me.”
Joan’s credits could fill a book … including appearances in “The Muppets Take Manhattan,” “The Carol Burnett Show,” “Hollywood Squares,” “Pee Wee’s Playhouse,” “Celebrity Apprentice,” “Saturday Night Live” … and on and on.
Armani
I loved watching her show.. I wish her family the best.. and peace and blessings in your new phase of life Ms. Joan Rivers. The spirit never dies