Female Comedians Remember Joan Rivers, The One Who Led the Way

Joan Rivers was a pioneer for plenty of reasons, but one of her biggest contributions was the legacy she left for female comedians. As TIME's Eliana Dockterman writes, "Rivers blazed trails for other women in the comedic industry by bringing taboo topics like abortion to light onstage. Without her, there would be no Sarah Silverman or Chelsea Handler or Amy Schumer."

Some of these women have expressed their thanks — and sorrow — publicly. Below are just some of the tributes: