Remembering Joan Rivers: A Trailblazer in Comedy

Joan Rivers, known for her sharp wit, once said, “I’ve had so much plastic surgery, when I die, they will donate my body to Tupperware.” Her humor remains alive on the internet, influencing female comedians like Amy Schumer, Chelsea Handler, and Wanda Sykes. Aubrey Plaza referred to Rivers as “the most badass female comedian there ever was.” Rivers passed away on September 4, 2014, due to a heart attack during a medical procedure at 81.

Rivers was known for her biting style, but she also held a significant place in comedy history. In 2017, Rolling Stone ranked her sixth in their list of the 50 best stand-up comics, ahead of legends like Jerry Seinfeld.

Early Life and Comedy Beginnings

Born Joan Alexandra Molinsky in Brooklyn on June 8, 1933, Rivers aspired to be an actress after attending Connecticut College. Her first experiences with comedy began at shabby nightclubs and even at her parents’ country club, where she did not fare well.

In 1961, she joined the cast of Second City, where she felt she truly began as a comedian. Working alongside future stars like Dick Cavett and Woody Allen, Rivers carved out a space at a time when female comics were rare.

Breaking Through: The Tonight Show

Rivers’ big break came on February 17, 1965, when she appeared on “The Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson. After her set, Carson announced, “God, you’re funny. You are going to be a star.” This appearance marked a pivotal moment, leading to major bookings and a boost to her confidence.

Through Carson, Rivers met Edgar Rosenberg, whom she married. By the 1980s, Rivers was Carson’s permanent guest host and poised to take over “The Tonight Show.”

Challenges and Resilience

In 1986, Fox offered Rivers her show, “The Late Show Starring Joan Rivers.” The decision strained her relationship with Carson. The show lasted only seven months, and her personal life soon unraveled. Her husband took his own life, and Rivers found herself in financial ruin, facing $37 million in debt. She rebuilt her career by creating new opportunities and becoming a business mogul.

Later Years and Legacy

Among her late-career achievements, Rivers and her daughter Melissa pioneered red carpet pre-shows for E! Entertainment Television. Rivers also hosted “Fashion Police” and appeared on QVC, among many other ventures. She remained a significant figure in comedy, breaking the “Tonight Show” ban with an appearance six months before her death.

Joan Rivers was admired for her resilience and professionalism, standing as a beacon for future generations of female comedians.