Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce Releases Statement on the Death of Joan Rivers

BroadwayWorld was saddened to report the death of legendary comedienne Joan Rivers, who had undergone a procedure on her vocal cords last Thursday, when she stopped breathing. Rivers was taken to Mount Sinai hospital in New York City, and later put into a medically induced coma and put on life support. She was 81.

Earlier this week, Rivers was moved from the ICU to a private room, where she was kept comfortable and surrounded by family and loved ones, who had been hoping for a miracle. Continued updates noted that she would be touched by the outpouring of support and kept comfortable, with no other details.

Now, the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce has released a statement on the star's death:

"We mourn the loss of Joan Rivers, the sensational Brooklyn-born and raised actress, comedian, writer, producer and television host. With a great career that extends back to the 1950s, the award-winning Ms. Rivers made a major impact in the world of entertainment and leaves a unique artistic legacy. This proud daughter of Flatbush will be fondly remembered for her remarkable "chutzpah" which made all of her performances, many of them right here in Brooklyn, unforgettable!"

Rivers was long a fixture on the New York scene, with numerous standup appearances, benefit appearances, and a long association with the theatrical community. She was a constant presence at opening nights and special events, and never hesitated to express her love for theatre and live entertainment.

Her Broadway credits include Fun City, Broadway Bound and Sally Marr...and her escorts, for which she received a Drama Desk Nomination as Outstanding Actress in a Play and a Tony Nomination for Best Actress in a Play.

For a look back at Rivers' multi-faceted career, click here.

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