Stars turn out for Joan
NEW YORK, USA (AP) — Howard Stern delivered the eulogy, Broadway singer-actress Audra McDonald sang Smile and bagpipers played New York, New York at Joan Rivers’ funeral yesterday, a star-studded send-off that — like the late comedian herself — brought together the worlds of Hollywood, theatre, fashion and media.
At a funeral befitting a superstar, the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus sang Broadway hits including Hey Big Spender before six-time Tony Award-winner McDonald sang her tribute to Rivers, a champion of theatre for decades.
Tributes and reminiscences were delivered by TV anchor Deborah Norville, close friend Margie Stern, columnist Cindy Adams and Rivers’ daughter, Melissa, who spoke about how she respected her mother, who died Thursday at 81, and appreciated everyone’s support.
Hugh Jackman sang Quiet Please, There’s a Lady On Stage at the end of the memorial, and bagpipers from the New York City Police Department played on the streets as mourners filed out of Temple Emanu-El, many dabbing their eyes.
“She would love this. We’ve all said this so many times: The one person who would really think this is the greatest thing ever is the lady who it’s all about, and she’s not here,” said Norville afterward, amid the throngs of well-wishers and sound of bagpipes.
A legion of notables turned out to remember Rivers: comedians Kathy Griffin, Rosie O’Donnell and Whoopi Goldberg; E! network Fashion Police colleague and friend Kelly Osbourne; Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick; and celebrity doctor Mehmet Oz.