Melissa Rivers Reveals That Barack Obama Sent Condolences After Joan Rivers' Passing—See Her Emotional First Public Appearance

See what Melissa Rivers had to say in her first public appearance

By Carrie Dilluvio Sep 19, 2014 12:29 AMTags
Watch: Barack Obama's Kind Words About Joan Rivers

In the above clip from tomorrow's Fashion Police: Celebrating Joan special, Melissa Rivers makes her first public appearance since the tragic death of our beloved Joan Rivers. She discusses her mother's wonderful legacy with Kelly Osbourne, Giuliana Rancic and George Kotsiopoulos.

"She affected so many people, and people you would never expect to have humor," Melissa explained. 

She goes on to share, "I received a letter from the White House, President Obama, someone who was often a target of her jokes, as was Mrs. Obama, but I received a hand-written note saying 'Not only did she make us laugh, she made us think.'" 

Joan Rivers tragically passed away earlier this month at 81-years-old after suffering from complications while undergoing a throat operation in New York City on Aug. 28.

Following her death, Melissa Rivers, released the following statement: "It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother. She passed peacefully at 1:17 p.m. surrounded by family and close friends. My son and I would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Mount Sinai Hospital for the amazing care they provided for my mother."

She continued: "Cooper and I have found ourselves humbled by the outpouring of love, support, and prayers we have received from around the world. They have been heard and appreciated. My mother's greatest joy in life was to make people laugh. Although that is difficult to do right now, I know her final wish would be that we return to laughing soon."

Tune-in tomorrow, Friday, September 19th for an all-day Fashion Police marathon from 7am-7pm ET/PT, followed by the 90-minute Fashion Police: Celebrating Joan special at 8/7c on E!