Joan Rivers Dies at 81

Joan Rivers died this afternoon, her daughter Melissa has confirmed. The groundbreaking comedian was 81.

Rivers was hospitalized last Thursday when she stopped breathing while undergoing throat surgery. She was temporarily put into a medically-induced coma, and then placed on life support.

Melissa Rivers posted 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.”

We’ll miss you, Joan.

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