Rivers, Joan

Rivers, Joan (b. Molinsky)

(1933– ) television comedienne, host; born in New York City. During the 1960s she developed her brash insult-comedy style in small clubs. Discovered by Johnny Carson in 1965, she became a nightclub star, writing a national column (1973–76), as well as books. Tonight Show permanent guest-host (1983–86), she left to host her own late-night show (1986–87), and after it failed, she began a daytime Joan Rivers show. She published Still Talking (1991).