Joan Rivers: The Ultimate Stand-Up Woman

She got knocked down and always got up again.  We expected her to rally back again after this recent cardiac event. Unfortunately, it would not happen and Joan Rivers passed at the age of 81. 

What a combination of genius, authenticity, passion, and talent. Many of us felt like we knew her. When she was on the streets of Manhattan, people felt comfortable greeting her because of that connection. Ms. Rivers was smart and witty. Her incredibly quick mind allowed her to traverse the fields of comedy, television, and business. 

People like Joan Rivers are rare jewels. She broke barriers for female comedians as a stand-up comic in the 1960s, the regular sub for Johnny Carson, and the first woman to host a night time talk show. She was an entrepreneur with a prolific line of products on QVC that spanned decades. Who can deny that she was the master at Red Carpet analysis? She pioneered the concept and show, Fashion Police.  She launched a reality show, Joan Knows Best, in her late 70s. Some of my favorite Joan moments were from The Apprentice, winning over fierce, much younger, competition. On top of all of that, her tweets were priceless.

She was a competitor and appeared to love her work. Even when at the top, she worked tirelessly as if it could all disappear tomorrow. A consummate survivor is an understatement when describing Joan Rivers.  Whether it was the politics of The Tonight Show or the tragedy of losing her spouse.  She bounced back.  Entertainment is a tough industry.  Let’s be honest; it’s even tougher if you are a woman and almost impossible if you are a woman over the age 40…50….try over the age of 70!  Yet, Joan Rivers remained relevant, timely, and in-demand to the age of 81. 

We can be inspired and lifted by Joan Rivers.  More importantly, let’s be grateful for the gift of her many talents.  She was a stand-up woman that could not be knocked down.  Thanks, Joan!  May your memory live on.