Fearless comedy legend Joan Rivers has passed away at age 81. Rivers has been on life support at Manhattan’s Mount Sinai hospital for much of the last week after she stopped breathing last Thursday while undergoing a minor elective procedure on her iconic vocal cords, during which she suffered cardiac and respiratory arrest.
Her daughter Melissa Rivers has released the following statement.
“It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother, Joan Rivers. 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.“
More to come.
Here’s some necessary weekend viewing. Rest in peace, you magnificent broad.
Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez via Getty
