US COMIC JOAN Rivers has died. The 81-year-old’s daughter, Melissa, confirmed the news in the last hour.

She said, “It it with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother, Joan Rivers.”

The comedian passed away peacefully surrounded by her friends and family in a New York hospital.

She was rushed to hospital a week ago after suffering complications during a medical procedure.

Melissa added that, “My son and I have found ourselves humbled by the outpouring of love, support and prayers we have received from around the world.

“They have been heard and appreciated.

My mother’s greatest joy in life was to make people laugh. Although that is difficult right now. I know her final wish would be that we return to laughing soon.

Born in Brooklyn and a long-time New York resident, Rivers spared no one her razor-sharp wit and was considered one of the best at delivering a cutting one-liner.

The E! television channel on which Rivers hosted the show “Fashion Police”, send out a tweet responding to the tragic news:

Originally posted 20:15.

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