Comedic legend Joan Rivers died today in New York at the age of 81.
Her death was announced by Palisadian Melissa Rivers in a statement on her mother’s Facebook page:
“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.”
Within minutes of the announcement, Twitter was flooded with messages of support and condolences for the comedic legend famous for her raspy-mouth and red carpet commentary.
She was one of the first female comedians who went against standard conventions in a world of entertainment dominated by mostly men, paving the way for other women in comedy.
Fans will gather at 1:30 p.m. in Hollywood to place flowers on Joan Rivers’ Hollywood Walk of Fame star.
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