The American stand-up comic and television presenter Joan Rivers, died on Thursday at age 81, a week after being rushed to a New York hospital, her family said.
“It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother, Joan Rivers. She passed peacefully at 1:17 pm surrounded by family and close friends,” her daughter Melissa Rivers said in a statement.
Joan Rivers had been admitted to Mount Sinai Hospital on August 28 after she stopped breathing during a medical procedure on her vocal cords at a private clinic.
“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,” her daughter added.
The Brooklyn-born comedian was recently known for her harsh criticism and outrageous comments on celebrity fashion on her show “Fashion Police” alongside several presenters including Kelly Osbourne, daughter of rocker Ozzy Osbourne.
Kelly was one of the first to pay tribute to her co-host:
I love you with all my heart @Joan_Rivers my life will never be the same with out you! https://t.co/0kn2FFZDF9 pic.twitter.com/zQnXlwepXh
— Kelly Osbourne (@KellyOsbourne) September 4, 2014
