“My career is as an actress. I am an actress playing a comedienne.”

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.