On April 26th, 1990, comedian and actress Joan Rivers made history by becoming the first woman to host a late-night talk show on a major network. The show, called “The Late Show Starring Joan Rivers,” aired on Fox and quickly became a sensation, cementing Rivers’ status as one of the most important figures in comedy history.
Prior to her hosting gig, Rivers had already established herself as a groundbreaking comedian, known for her sharp wit, biting humor, and fearless approach to taboo topics. She had appeared on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” numerous times, becoming a favorite guest of Carson’s and a frequent fill-in host for the show.
But Rivers’ relationship with Carson soured when she was offered her own late-night talk show on Fox, and she famously never appeared on “The Tonight Show” again. Despite this controversy, Rivers went on to make history with her own show, breaking down barriers for women in the male-dominated world of late-night TV.
On “The Late Show,” Rivers continued to push boundaries and tackle taboo subjects, with segments like “Can We Talk?” and “Fashion Police” becoming instant hits with audiences. She also featured a wide range of guests, from fellow comedians to actors, musicians, and politicians, and was known for her ability to get her guests to open up and reveal new sides of themselves.
Despite its popularity, “The Late Show” only lasted for one season on Fox, with Rivers being replaced by Arsenio Hall the following year. But her impact on the world of comedy and television was already undeniable, and she continued to work in the industry for many years, hosting her own daytime talk show, “The Joan Rivers Show,” and making countless appearances on other programs.
Rivers’ influence on comedy history can still be felt today, with her legacy as a trailblazer for women in the industry inspiring countless comedians and performers. And while her controversial comments and sometimes polarizing humor have been debated over the years, there’s no denying the impact that Rivers had on the world of comedy, and the important role that she played in breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of comedians.
As we remember Joan Rivers on this April 26th, we can celebrate her legacy as an icon of comedy history, and honor the many ways in which she changed the game for women in the industry. From her fearless approach to taboo subjects to her legendary hosting gigs, Rivers will always be remembered as one of the most important and influential figures in comedy, and a true trailblazer for women in entertainment.