Comedy Tribute Planned for Joan Rivers Featuring Stars and Stand-Up Acts

NEW YORK, NY – On May 13, NBC will air “Joan Rivers: A Dead Funny All-Star Tribute,” a special comedy event commemorating the late Joan Rivers, recorded in Harlem last November.

Melissa Rivers, Joan’s daughter, expressed her thoughts about the upcoming tribute, stating, “Given that I’m dead, I assume someone will finally decide to honor me. Well, it’s about time.” For fans who want the full experience, an uncensored version will be released on Peacock the following day.

The comedy special will feature stand-up performances from notable comedians, including Chelsea Handler, Tiffany Haddish, Aubrey Plaza, and Rita Wilson. The show aims to celebrate Rivers’ unmatched humor through new sets and a showcase of her classic jokes, meticulously organized by the comic herself.

Rita Wilson commented on Rivers’ impact in a conversation with PEOPLE, saying, “Even though you never knew what she was going to say, I was always very comfortable around Joan. She was incredibly mean at times, but that’s what made her so funny.”

Wilson also reflected on Rivers’ work ethic, noting, “She kept those files of jokes and material. To me, that was incredible.”

Actor Joel McHale praised Rivers as a pioneer in comedy, saying, “She was obviously a pioneer, and she pushed things to the edge. But she was also such a glamorous woman… against a backdrop of men who were jealous of each other.”

The tribute was co-created by Melissa Rivers and Erich Bergen, with Melissa saying, “This is more than a tribute. It’s a reminder of the trail she blazed and the joy she brought to so many.” Proceeds from the event will support an organization Joan Rivers championed during her life.

<p"She loved giving back," said Melissa. "To be honored like this by all these amazing comedians is pretty special." The show will air at 10 p.m. and will be available to stream on Peacock the following day.