Joan Rivers Passes Away At The Age Of 81

NBC News reports that Joan Rivers has passed away at the age of 81. She'd been in a medically induced coma since last week after problems arose during routine work on her vocal chords.

Rivers had been a well known comedienne for many years and most recently was host of the E! Network's "Fashion Police."

Her daughter, Melissa Rivers, released the following statement:

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 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.

Here's Joan on the Tonight show recently.