Joan Rivers Hailed as “Legendary” by Donald Trump During Last TV Appearance Before Her Death
Joan Rivers appeared on TV for the final time before her death on last night’s pre-filmed episode of The Celebrity Apprentice, where host Donald Trump affectionately praised the late comedienne’s iconic role in showbiz.
“With me today is the legendary Joan Rivers, and her advice means a lot,” Donald, 68, told current show contestants of Joan, who won the reality competition in 2009.
During the episode — which was shot just one month before the star’s untimely death at age 81 on Sept. 4, 2014 — Joan advised the teams on business practices while offering entertaining commentary and jokes.
Joan, Donald and Ivanka filming ‘The Celebrity Apprentice.’
“It is so amazing to have Joan Rivers with us. She was such a great champion and remains a great champion,” Donald added while introducing her to the program’s participants.
Before the episode’s airing on Monday, Jan. 19, the business mogul expressed his excitement for the former ‘Fashion Police’ host’s appearance on the popular series.
The Apprentice will be very exciting and interesting tonight at 8:00. Joan Rivers puts on a great show!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 19, 2015
In response to Donald’s tweet, Joan’s 47-year-old daughter, Melissa Rivers, shared her gratitude toward the businessman and his two children, Ivanka, 33, and Donald Jr., 37, who serve as boardroom judges on the program.
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@realDonaldTrump @IvankaTrump @DonaldJTrumpJr Thank you for all of your kindness and support. My mother loved you all.
— Melissa Rivers (@MelRivers) January 20, 2015