Joan Rivers dies at age 81

Legendary comedienne Joan Rivers died in a Manhattan hospital today, a week after she went into cardiac arrest during a routine throat procedure.

In a statement, her daughter Melissa said the 81-year-old passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family.   

The legendary comedienne was rushed to Mount Sinai Hospital a week ago after going into cardiac arrest during an outpatient procedure on her vocal chords at another clinic, which is now under investigation. 

She has been at the center of American entertainment since her breakthrough in 1965 when she broke through on the Tonight Show. 

The mother of one, daughter Melissa, and doting grandmother to Melissa’s son, Cooper has most recently hosted Fashion Police on the E! network. 

'It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother, Joan Rivers,’ Melissa Rivers said in a statement released to the press Thursday.

‘She passed peacefully at 1:17pm surrounded by family and close friends. My son and I would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Mount Sinai Hospital for the amazing care they provided for my mother.

‘Cooper 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 to do right now, I know her final wish would be that we return to laughing soon.’

Earlier in the day, the New York state Department of Health revealed it is now looking into Yorkville Endoscopy - the clinic where Rivers had the ill-fate surgery.

State officials said they are reviewing the case, but have yet to launch an official investigation.

Spokesman James O'Hare said Thursday that the department is looking into 'the whole matter.' He declined to discuss specifics.