Joan Rivers

1933 – 2014

Joan Alexandra Molinsky, known professionally as Joan Rivers, was an American comedian and television host whose 50-year career made her a pioneer of women in stand-up comedy. After becoming a regular guest host on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson in the 1980s, her 1986 jump to host her own Fox late-night show led Carson to never speak to her again, even as she rebuilt her career multiple times across daytime television, the Fashion Police red-carpet beat on E!, and a fierce final stretch of stand-up touring. She died in 2014 at age 81 from complications of an outpatient throat procedure.

Last checked: May 10, 2026, 1:06 PM