Joan Rivers and David Letterman. She is considered by many critics and journalists a pioneer of women in comedy. All authored and read by Joan Rivers, except where noted. Joan Rivers Joan Alexandra Molinsky (June 8, 1933 – September 4, 2014), known professionally as Joan Rivers, was an American comedian, actress, writer, producer, and television host. She was noted for her often controversial comedic persona—heavily self-deprecating or sharply acerbic, especially toward celebrities and politicians. Rivers rose 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
Joan Lovett released from jail in April 2003 and told CBS News in 2004 that she had completed substance-abuse counseling. Joan has been sober since 2004. She has not returned to work in broadcasting. She is now focusing on a career in writing. Jeff is survived by his wife Joan and their two children Samantha and Jonathan. Joan Lovett Joan M. Lovelace (born November 13, 1960), known professionally as Joan Lovett, is a former American television news anchor. A native of St. Louis, Missouri and Rockford, Illinois, Lovett earned a bachelor's degree in Radio/TV News and Print Journalism from Southern Illinois University