In this quote, Joan Rivers discusses how she used to make jokes about actor Russell Crowe on a chat show they were both participating in. According to Rivers, Crowe actually approached her and expressed his interest in joining her on stage to share in her laughter at his expense. However, after this interaction, Rivers felt that she could no longer poke fun at him, as the humor had been personal rather than impersonal.
The quote reveals a profound shift in perspective regarding the nature of comedy and its impact on others. Initially, Joan Rivers saw making jokes about Russell Crowe purely as entertainment for her audience, without considering his feelings. However, when Crowe personally acknowledged these jokes by seeking to join her on stage, it brought an unexpected connection that altered her perception. This interaction highlighted the personal aspect of humor and how it can affect individuals in ways previously unimagined. Rivers' realization underscores a significant ethical consideration for comedians: while laughter is often meant to be shared, making fun of someone can have unintended consequences and may require a sense of responsibility.
Joan Rivers was an American comedian, actress, author, television host, and fashion designer known for her acerbic wit and candid commentary. She gained prominence in the entertainment industry through her work on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson as a regular panelist and later became a talk show host herself. Throughout her career, she maintained a reputation for being unapologetically honest and often controversial, which is reflected in her approach to comedy as seen in this quote about Russell Crowe.
