Celebrity Apprentice fans saw a bittersweet reunion on Monday, Jan. 19, when the late Joan Rivers appeared as an advisor on the popular NBC reality show. The pre-taped episode featured the 2009 Apprentice winner working alongside host Donald Trump, who clearly thought highly of the late comedienne.
“With me today is the legendary Joan Rivers, and her advice means a lot,” he told the current group of contestants.
Rivers went on to advise the teams, offering subdued commentary and steering clear of her signature in-your-face, over-the-top style. She barely even cracked a joke, instead choosing to encourage the contestants while wearing a hot pink blazer.
Prior to the episode airing, Trump tweeted, “The Apprentice will be very exciting and interesting tonight at 8:00. Joan Rivers puts on a great show!”
Joan’s daughter, producer, and Celebrity Apprentice costar Melissa Rivers tweeted, “@realDonaldTrump @IvankaTrump @DonaldJTrumpJr Thank you for all of your kindness and support. My mother loved you all.”
Joan Rivers was 81 when she died on Sept. 4, 2014. She passed away due to complications from a routine throat procedure.