Joan Alexandra Molinsky (June 8, 1933 – September 4, 2014),
known as Joan Rivers, was an American actress, comedian, writer, producer, and
television host noted for her often controversial comedic persona — where she
was alternately self-deprecating or sharply acerbic, especially toward
celebrities and politicians.
Rivers came to prominence in 1965 as a guest on The Tonight
Show. Hosted by her mentor, Johnny Carson, the show established Rivers' comedic
style. In 1986, with her own rival program, The Late Show with Joan Rivers,
Rivers became the first woman to host a late night network television talk
show. She subsequently hosted The Joan Rivers Show (1989-1993), winning a
Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Talk Show Host.