Following Joan Rivers’ death, her “Fashion Police” co-stars and E! colleagues are speaking out to honor the legendary comedian. Giuliana Rancic, Kelly Osbourne and George Kotsiopoulos, among others, have shared their thoughts on how the beloved icon touched their lives.
We’re very sad to share that Joan Rivers has passed away. Our hearts go out to her family. http://t.co/NhLAWNwlLz pic.twitter.com/pbULbILrjC
— E!’s Fashion Police (@e_FashionPolice) September 4, 2014
Rancic, Rivers’ “Fashion Police” co-host, released the following statement, which E! News’ Jason Kennedy read on air:
It is almost impossible to describe how much I adore Joan and how much she has meant to me. She was not only the funniest woman 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.
Speaking to Hollywoodlife.com, Osbourne had the following words:
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!
Soon after Rivers’ death was announced, Kotsiopoulos took to Twitter to share a simple, heart-wrenching message:
Rest in peace @Joan_Rivers. Thank you for changing my life. I will miss you so much.
— George Kotsiopoulos (@GeorgeKotsi) September 4, 2014
He later posted a photo of his co-host to Instagram with a longer note:
“Joan was eternally young, hysterically funny and unapologetically glamorous,” Kotsiopoulos wrote. “She was also the kindest, classiest and cleverest person you would ever meet. I was a lucky man to be honored with the privilege of sitting next to her every week. I loved her beyond words and I will miss her even more.”
Other members of Rivers’ E! family took to Twitter to honor the star:
We’re so sad to report Joan Rivers has passed away at 81. Our hearts go out to her family at this difficult time. http://t.co/BCxJLVOCdD
— E! Online (@eonline) September 4, 2014
#RIP to the talented, funny and fearless Joan Rivers. Sending thoughts and prayers to her family… http://t.co/9QjUwqWcXh
— Jesse Giddings (@jessegiddings) September 4, 2014
She was trailblazing. Hysterical. Thoughtful. We’ll miss you immensely Joan.
— Ryan Seacrest (@RyanSeacrest) September 4, 2014
Rip #JoanRivers Rivers.such a fan of your honesty,talent,work ethic&generosity.U did so much 2 pave the road 4females in this biz thnk u
— maria menounos (@mariamenounos) September 4, 2014
My heart goes out to Melissa & the rest of the family. I love you Joan. We all loved you. Thanks for the laughs. May you rest in peace
— Terrence J (@TerrenceJ) September 5, 2014
Rest in peace, funny lady. We will miss you.
— catt sadler (@IAmCattSadler) September 4, 2014
#RIP, Joan. Thanks for always being so kind to everyone here at E!, and for all the laughs.
— Kristin Dos Santos (@KristinDSantos) September 4, 2014