Comedy Legend Joan Rivers Dead, Aged 81

Comedy legend and television personality Joan Rivers has passed away, aged 81.

The Fashion Police host's daughter Melissa confirmed the sad news in a statement, following Joan's hospitalisation last week.

Despite conflicting reports regarding her condition following a cardiac arrest during a throat operation, the star died at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York today (September 4).

Announcing her mother's death, she said: "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."

She continued: "(Our family) 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 in life 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."