NBC is assembling a constellation of comedy stars to celebrate the life and legacy of the iconic Joan Rivers. “Joan Rivers: A Dead Funny All-Star Tribute” will air on May 13, marking a decade since the groundbreaking comedian’s passing.
Here’s the Lowdown: Airing Tuesday, May 13 at 10 p.m. ET/PT, this one-hour special presents top comedians paying homage to Rivers’ sharp wit and cultural impact. Filmed at the Apollo Theater, performers will revisit her classic jokes and offer their own material. Participants include Rachel Brosnahan, Margaret Cho, Nikki Glaser, Tiffany Haddish, Chelsea Handler, Neil Patrick Harris, Bill Maher, Howie Mandel, Joel McHale, Tracy Morgan, Patton Oswalt, Aubrey Plaza, Sarah Silverman, Jean Smart, Rita Wilson, and Rivers’ daughter, Melissa Rivers.
What This Means Now: Fans of Joan Rivers and comedy can look forward to a night of laughter celebrating a genuine pioneer. The special sets out to provide a mix of stand-up, appearances, and musical segments reflecting on Rivers’ enduring influence. An extended, uncensored version will become available on Peacock starting May 14.
The Bigger Picture: This tribute underscores Rivers’ significant role in comedy, particularly in clearing paths for women in late-night television and entertainment. The event, filmed during the 2024 New York Comedy Festival, also benefited God’s Love We Deliver, a charity Rivers actively supported. It acts as an acknowledgment of her fearless humor and lasting effect on stand-up and pop culture commentary.
