New York Gay Men’s Chorus opens Joan Rivers funeral
As a host of stars gathered to mourn the late comedian Joan Rivers, the New York Gay Men’s Chorus and Hugh Jackman were among those to perform.
Among those attending the event were Whoopi Goldberg, Sarah Jessica Parker, Donald Trump, Kelly Osborne and Barbara Walters.
The Gay Men’s Chorus sang Broadway hits including ‘Hey Big Spender’, and radio host Howard Stern delivered the eulogy.
Rivers’ daughter Melissa spoke at the funeral of her admiration and respect for her mother.
Mourners lined up on Fifth Avenue outside a synagogue before the service started.
The Running Order of the funeral
US comedian Rivers died last week at age 81 after being rushed into hospital a week before.
The announcement was made by Rivers’ daughter Melissa that the star known for her E! channel Fashion Police TV show, died peacefully.
The comedian had been rushed into hospital during an operation on her vocal chords when she suffered a cardiac arrest. She was later sedated, then placed on life support.
Considered by some a gay icon, Rivers appeared at a book signing in New York in July and officiated at the wedding of two gay fans.
At the height of the AIDS epidemic, Rivers would visit gay men living with HIV and give them presents at Christmas.
