Comedian Joan Rivers recovering after 'dying during throat operation'

Reports claim that Mrs Rivers stopped breathing during a throat operation.

17:12 29 August 2014

81-year-old comedian Joan Rivers had a health scare during a throat operation at an outpatient centre in New York City on Thursday. She was rushed to the hospital in a critical condition after she reportedly stopped breathing. However, her daughter confirmed that her mother is now out of the woods.

She said: "I want to thank everyone for the overwhelming love and support for my mother. She is resting comfortably and is with our family.

"We ask that you continue to keep her in your thoughts and prayers."
A spokesman for the Mount Sinai Hospital has confirmed that she had been taken there.

Meanwhile, a police spokesman said that they received an emergency call at 9.39am local time from an outpatient centre that specialises in digestive disorders. However, nobody can confirm reports that Mrs Rivers’ heart had stopped beating at one point.

Following the health scare, stars immediately sent their best wishes via Twitter.

Modern Family actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson wrote: "Sending all my love and prayers to my friend @Joan--Rivers right now."

American TV host Billy Bush wrote on his Facebook page that Melissa Rivers had told him to "please pray".

He wrote: "Praying for Joan Rivers who is in critical condition at Mt Sinai hospital in NY. Texted with Melissa Rivers who said "please pray". Already doing that. Joan is beloved around here."

Actress Kelly Ripa tweeted: "Praying for the great @Joan--Rivers one of the true loves of my life."