Joan Rivers Dies; Celebrities Flood Twitter in Mourning
Joan Rivers died at age 81 in New York City on Thursday, Sept. 4, causing an outburst of prayers and condolences for her family via social media.
The "Fashion Police" star died after suffering from complications while having a throat surgery at a doctor's office earlier this week. Her daughter, Melissa, announced the news in a statement while also offering thanks, saying she and the Rivers family are "humbled by the outpouring of love, support, and prayers we have received from around the world."
"They have been heard and appreciated," Melissa said, according to E News. "My mother's greatest joy in life was to make people laugh. Although that is difficult to do now, I know her final wish would be that we return to laughing soon."
Following the news, Hollywood immediately took to Twitter with their sorrow, including "Kelly and Michael Live" host Kelly Ripa who wrote, "NOOOOOO…. RIP Joan. You will be forever missed."
Ellen DeGeneres added, "Joan Rivers will always be a pioneer. She paved the way for a lot of comedians. I'm very sad she's gone."
"RIP to the funniest, most hardworking lady in the biz, you will be missed @Joan_Rivers," Jenny McCarthy wrote.
Kristin Chenoweth wrote, "RIP Joan Rivers. You made us laugh and happy," while Bette Midler added, "Joan Rivers has died. What a sad ending to a brilliant and tragi-comic life' one of the bravest, funniest of all."
"Joan Rivers RIP," Candace Cameron-Bure posted. "I loved spending this time with you recently. One of my all time favorite interviews."
"Hunger Games" actress Elizabeth Banks also sounded off, writing, "I loved Joan Rivers. A trailblazing funny lady. Have fun up there. #RIPJoan"
Sharon Osbourne also shared a tribute, tweeting, "We've lost a true legend today and an amazing woman- a pioneer. She opened up the arena for women in comedy… My heart goes out to Melissa and Edgar. Love and respect from the Osbourne family to you both."