The world went silent this past Thursday (September 4th) when Joan Rivers, 81, passed away from complications due to a throat procedure. Known for her unfiltered jokes that sometimes caused controversy, the world of television was heartbroken by the loss of a true legend.
The word pioneer reflects her perfectly, as she was a true pioneer for women in comedy, paving the way for many more to come. She broke the barrier of women in late night television, and was really the first woman to be so respected in the world of comedy. For me, Joan Rivers will always have a special place in my heart. Though I sometimes found that her jokes would cross the line, what she has done for women wanting to go into media broadcasting (such as yours truly) is unimaginable. She coined the phrase “Who are you wearing?”; a phrase which changed my life.
Though that may sound off, that simple phrase would soon change the face of award shows. It turned them from a show to an event, making it a multi-sensory experience, one that fashionistas and film buffs alike would enjoy.
She was the creator of E! News’ Live From the Red Carpet, the show that made me realize what career I wanted to go into. Needless to say, though Rivers could often make jokes that the recipient was not too fond of, she made a difference. And that is what she will be remembered for. I’d like to say thank you, Joan, from all of us girls that have a dream to make it in this world.
Thank you from the young women sitting behind their desks, perusing the latest fashions and writing reviews late at night. From the ones who study late night television, hoping that one day they can make it to primetime. A thank you from the women who have dreams to be taken seriously in the comedic field, a place that once seemed impossible to us. Thank you for paving the way for us with a dream, making everything we want seem a little more possible.
I often fantasized that one-day I would be able to witness in person Joan’s hilarious trash talking on Fashion Police whilst trying to cover up the hysterical laughter from the cameras. I hoped to one day be trash talked by Joan, because that would truly be an honour, as odd as that sounds. Rivers’ passion and work ethic changed the face of comedy for all of us, but at the end of the day it was her job as a mother and grandmother that Rivers’ took the most pride in. Our thoughts and prayers from all of us here at Aura 32 to Joan’s family and friends at this time. And from all of us, who have somehow been impacted by Ms. Rivers’ career, whether it be from a belly-aching laugh, to a career role model, we have one thing to say to you.
Joan, thank you. So, “who are you wearing?”
Written by: Jamie Hoholuk
(Photos and Information belong to E! News)