Barbra Streisand, Amy Poehler, more remember Joan Rivers (Updated)

Joan Rivers died Thursday at age 81, and her famous friends and admirers, ranging from Fashion Police co-host Giuliana Rancic to comedian Amy Schumer, remembered her for her sharp, energetic humor and for being a pioneer in both comedy and feminism. Here is a list of the statements so far, with updates to come:

Giuliana Rancic

“It is almost impossible to describe how much I adored Joan and how much she has meant to me. She was not only the funniest women I have ever met but was incredibly loving, honest, and lived her life with no regrets. Working with her for the last 13 years has been one of the true joys of my life. She could put a smile on your face instantly no matter how hard your day was. My heart goes out to Melissa and Cooper, who have lost something that can never be replaced. Their bond was truly one-of-a-kind. They had the greatest mother and grandmother anyone could have ever hoped for. My life is so much fuller and happier because I got to share it with this beautiful person, a true genius. I woke up today unable to grasp what the world will be like without her and, at the same time, feel so privileged to have called her my friend.”

Barbra Streisand

“I first met Joan Molinsky, that was her real name, when I was 17 years old and we were both in a off off Broadway show called ‘Driftwood.’ She was a real character then and now.. I am so upset by her passing. She was too young and had too much to do still.”

Kelly Osbourne

“I’m completely heartbroken by the loss of my beloved Joan. Not only was she my boss, she was and will always be my teacher, therapist, closest friend, inspiration and the only grandmother I ever knew. She was family and I will never forget her. Laughter will be difficult for a while but when I’m sad, lonely or upset all I will have to do is think of Joan and a smile will cross my face. Laughter is what she gave us and laughter is what she would want us to do in remembrance of her. Melissa and Cooper, my thoughts are with you and I love you both so much. Joan, thank you for taking me in and loving me as a daughter. I will miss you deeply and will always hear your voice in my head saying ‘my darling get out there and be you!”

Kelly Ripa

“Joan Rivers was a pioneer in the entertainment industry. Fearless, tireless, and brilliantly funny. I will forever look up to Joan. She was a true friend. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.”

Amy Poehler

“What a full life. Every woman in comedy is indebted to her. She was there at the beginning and funny to the end. RIP Joan.”

Amy Schumer

“Joan was hilarious and relevant all the way to the end. She inspired every comic I know and we will carry her with us and quote her jokes forever. When I met her at the premiere of her movie, A Piece of Work, she was so kind and wanted to make sure all the comics were going to stay so we could all hang out together. I thought that was so cool. Such a pro, such a hard worker. This was a huge loss for us all. ​​��

Louis C.K.

“I feel very lucky that I knew Joan Rivers and I feel very sad that she’s gone. She was a great comedian and a wonderful person. I never saw someone attack a stage with so much energy. She was a controlled lightning bolt.”

David Steinberg

“She was one of the best comedy guests Johnny [Carson] ever had…”

Judge Judy

“There won’t be another one like her in our lifetime. Aside from her tremendous talent, she was gracious, giving, and honest. She was a one-of-a-kind lady. I’ll miss her.”

NeNe Leakes

“Who could talk fashion with a back handed slap better than Joan? Nobody! Every time I was around her we laughed, talked fashion… In fact the last time I saw her, I was struggling with a career choice. She gave me great, genuine advice that I will take with me through the rest of my career. Joan was smart, caring and a pioneer. She will be missed.”

Ricki Stern

“Spending a year traveling with Joan was definitely a highlight in my career. Even walking down the street with Joan was an adventure – she would stop police officers on the corner and offer to bring them pie and coffee. She never passed a fan without a hug, a photo, an autograph and an encouraging word. She was a gracious, kind, generous and irreverent soul with a spirit that will not be extinguished. She was a loyal and loving mom who cherished her time with her grandson. She was the keeper of the wounded and the champion of those misunderstood. She had a biting, uncensored humor that would sometimes offend but she felt she spoke the truth and damn was she funny. She was a best friend to my mom. We can only hope that she will continue to haunt our lives.”

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