Comedy Legend Joan Rivers Dead at 81

On September 4, 2014, Rivers died following serious complications—including cardiac arrest—that arose during throat surgery at a clinic in Yorkville on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.

“It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother, Joan Rivers,” Melissa Rivers said in a written statement today. “She passed peacefully at 1:17 p.m. 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.”

Joan Alexandra Molinsky (previously Rosenberg; was born on June 8, 1933. Known by her stage name Joan Rivers, was an American actress, comedian, writer, producer and television host, best known for her stand-up comedy, for co-hosting the E! celebrity fashion show Fashion Police, and for starring in the reality series Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best? alongside her daughter Melissa Rivers.