“Laughing made me feel safe. I was not going to be enveloped by the seediness that coated this world like dust.”

American comedian, actress, producer, writer and television host

Joan Rivers was an American comedian, actress, producer, writer, and television host. She was known for a blunt style of comedy that often crossed into controversy, and for helping open doors for women in comedy. She was born Joan Alexandra Molinsky. Her act was built around self-deprecation, sharp observations, and jokes aimed at celebrities and politicians, all delivered in a recognizable New York accent. She received an Emmy Award and a Grammy Award, and was also nominated for a Tony Award.