Eight years ago, I stood outside of a green room and was scared to death. My hands were shaking, my heart was pounding and there were beads of sweat quickly forming on my forehead. As a Show Host, it is mandatory to meet with your on air guest an hour before the show. It was my first time with Joan Rivers and I was a nervous wreck.
As I knocked on the door, I worried that I would be over run by the "Joan Rivers" we see as a Comedian and Red Carpet Critic....I stood frozen, waiting for the digs, the jokes, the snappy comments. A very quiet, humble lady opened the door and said, "Come in honey, take a seat". She looked like Joan, talked like Joan... But this was not the lady I knew from TV. Of course, it was Joan Rivers. She was kind, quiet, humble and very sweet. Joan started conversations about me and tried to find a common ground between us. She did everything she could to make me feel comfortable and at ease. She succeeded. After every show, she would always ask me if I liked anything and could she send it to my house. Joan was always thoughtful and giving.
Five years ago, the Catholic elementary school I attended as a child needed help. They asked for some autographed pictures of Joan, for a fund raiser. I don't like to ask people for things, but since this was for charity, I called David Dangle. Shortly after that, Joan made sure my school had boxes and boxes of all her products, autographed pictures and six tickets to her show in Hershey with backstage passes and personal meet and greet with Joan. The fund raiser was one of the best our school ever had, thanks to Joan. Later, during one of our shows, she said,"you know, Antonella, just because I'm Jewish, doesn't mean I don't love the Catholics...............my best friend is a Nun". We laughed, because she was half joking, but half serious too. Her generosity and kindness to everyone was the best part of her character.
A while back, during a commercial break, Joan asked me if GPS's really work and are they easy to use. She said she always gets lost driving to Melissa's. I told her I got 30% off and would send one to her. She was soooo tickled about the savings. Here is the funny note she sent me.
I thought it was very impressive that a lady of her time restraints had a moment to send such a sweet note. She had good manners and was very thankful for any kind deed someone did for her.
I am very, very sad. I loved being around her. Joan Rivers was truly one of the nicest people ever. She didn't have a mean bone in her body and always reached out to help any one...even strangers. I love her very much and will miss her every day. God bless her family and friends.
JOAN, MAKE GOD LAUGH AND JESUS TOO.
All my love,
Antonella