Comedian Joan Rivers dead at 81

(AP Photo/Dan Steinberg, File)

Joan Rivers, the comedian who broke the ceiling on the male-dominated latenight talk shows and interviewed Hollywood celebrities on the red carpet with no agenda -- accept maybe to point out their bad choice in clothes, died Thursday at Mount Sanai Hospital in New York, surrounded by family and close friends. 

She had been hospitalized Aug. 28 after going into cardiac arrest in a doctor's office following a routine procedure. The New York state health department is investigating the circumstances.

 

Locally, Rivers was known for her performances at Andiamo Celebrity Showroom where she was scheduled to perform this November.

Joe Vicari, CEO of Andiamo has issued the following statement on the passing of Joan Rivers.

“The entire Andiamo family is deeply saddened by the passing of our friend Joan Rivers. She has graced our stage numerous times and provided laughter and entertainment to our audience as she has to her countless fans all over the world. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time.”

Ticket holders may receive a refund from point of purchase. 

Survivors include Rivers' daughter, Melissa and a grandson, Cooper.