JOAN RIVERS - ALL LAUGHSNo, I didn't ask Joan Rivers about her finances over dinner at the Friars club - but I wouldn't worry. The undisputed Queen of comedy is as busy today as she was 20 years ago! The second season of her hit show on TV Land Prime - "How'd you get so Rich" premieres May 5th. Joan was all laughs talking about the experience, and how much fun she is having shooting season two.
Sitting at Joan's table is like being on the dais, all eyes are on you! We were all at the Friars to honor one of Brooklyn's most famous entertainers - Lainie Kazan. Kazan is known by audiences all over the world for her portrayal as strong willed mothers in Beaches & My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Years before those roles, Kazan shot to fame as the worlds most famous understudy. Of course she was the understudy for the one and only Barbra Streisand in the Broadway show Funny Girl in the 60's. 
JOAN & JASON AT THE FRIARS CLUB
During the tribute, Joan shared memories of performing at The Duplex in Manhattan back in the 60's. These gals were young and hungry for fame. Joan was already being Joan, and Lainie was wowing audiences with those golden pipes. The whole evening was a treat - albeit surreal at times. After all, when have you ever heard of attorney Gloria Allred, Actress Michelle Lee, & singer Leslie Gore on the same bill??!! Michelle Lee thought it would be funny to drag her luggage up on stage - as she had mixed up the dates and just come from the airport. It wasn't.
What is funny is Joan Rivers' show on TV Land Prime. Yes, TV Land has prime time programming and Joan Rivers is just the comic force to make it a destination for feel good, funny programming. In HYGSR we see Joan crossing the country to meet people who are insanely rich - and most importantly - self made. Often the rood to riches is from the smallest or at first glance silliest invention - last season we saw the college student who has made millions on the Snuggie! But these folks are laughing all the way to the bank. What comes through is the sense of happiness these people have from achieving something great on their own. Really, it's Joan story as well. Hard work and moxie has kept her on top of her game all these years. Her comedy competition are girls 30 years her junior - and Joan is funnier. On a more serious note, the documentary Joan Rivers - A piece of Work is hitting theaters this month. The film was one of the biggest hits at Sundance this year. The documentary shows just how much hard work goes into being so damn funny. Don't miss it.
As for How'd You Get So Rich, don't take my word for how hilarious it is - watch the opening credits for the show - if you don't laugh - don't watch. I know you will be tuning in. How'd You Get So Rich debuts May 5th on TV Land Prime at 10 pm. To find what channel TV Land is in your area - click - MY TV LAND