Joan Rivers praises Phyllis Diller’s illustrious career.

The legendary American comedienne passed away at the age of 95 in Los Angeles Monday.

Joan, whom Phyllis lovingly referred to as her “protégée”, is sad to see her dear friend and colleague go.

Joan believes that Phyllis’ work is underrated, as the star shot to fame during the 1960s when comedy was more about props than good punch lines. Joan hopes that Phyllis’ career will be celebrated.



“The only tragedy in (Diller's) entire life is that she was funny in an era when you had to look funny to be funny,” Joan told TMZ.

“Her lines were so brilliant that all she had to do was stand on the stage and say 'em and you would have cracked up.”

Joan had the support of Phyllis throughout her career and really appreciated the acknowledgment she received from the icon as a fledgling comic. “(Phyllis) was the most generous of comedians,” Joan gushed. “I adored her.”

Phyllis died at her home in Los Angeles surrounded by loved ones.She is survived by three of her six children, her two daughters Sally and Suzanne and her 62-year-old son Perry.