Joan Rivers Dead: 81-Year-Old 'Fashion Police' Host Passes Away One Week After Outpatient Surgery, Daughter Melissa Rivers Releases Statement

Joan Rivers has passed away at the age of 81 after undergoing routine surgery to fix her damaged vocal cords. The Fashion Police host and comedienne was rushed to the hospital last Thursday after she stopped breathing and suffered a cardiac arrest on the table during the outpatient producers.

Melissa Rivers, Joan's daughter, released the following statement earlier today regarding her mothers passing.

"It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother, Joan Rivers," she stated. "She passed peacefully at 1:17 pm surrounded by family and 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."

Melissa also expressed her gratitude to fans and friends for all their support for her and her family during this difficult time.

We "have found ourselves humbled by the outpouring of love, support and prayers we have received from around the world," Melissa added. "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."

According to ABC News, Rivers was moved from the Intensive Care Unit on September 2 to a private room where she was put on life support.

There is not doubt that the world is a much sadder place without the famed comedienne. May she Rest In Peace.

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