Kathy Griffin Quits ‘Fashion Police,’ Emails Celebrity Pals for Support

By Cheri Cheng - 13 Mar '15 15:29PM
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Kathy Griffin has decided to leave "Fashion Police" after only seven episodes. The comedian, who was filling in for the late Joan Rivers, released a statement on Twitter.

Her statement read, "When I chose to step into the shoes of my beloved friend Joan Rivers at Fashion Police, I was thrilled to continue her legacy as a woman being brash and eccentric on television. I am a freedom-loving female and gay rights activist who loves to find the funny in all people, attitudes, beliefs and appearances, but only when the context permits intelligent humor...I'm a feminist AND a Gurrrrl who loves an offensive joke or a well-time barb and you will find plenty in my repertoire. But I do not want to use my comedy to contribute to a culture of unattainable perfectionism and intolerance towards difference."

Griffin's announcement has received a lot of support from female comedians. Former "Fashion Police" co-host Kelly Osbourne tweeted, "I could not be more proud of you @kathygriffin you have my love and support always!"

Griffin's departure comes shortly after Osbourne announced that she was quitting the show. Although Osbourne decided to leave the show after co-host Guliana Rancic made the controversial comment about actress Zendaya's hair, Osbourne did not say that the racist comment was behind her decision to part ways with the network.

Actress, comedian and writer Lena Dunham also showed her support through this Instagram post that reads: "Congrats to my beautiful friend Kathy Griffin for bravely saying enough is enough to intolerance of all kinds on television. She's modeling a better way for the youths (and working those ears.)"

Other stars that also posted their support on social media include Jane Lynch, Chelsea Handler, Mindy Kaling, Aubrey Plaza, Wendy Williams, Kristen Chenoweth, Billy Eichner, and Rosie O'Donnell.

Although E! has not announced replacements, many are speculating that Khloe Kardashian, NeNe Leakes and Naya Rivera could fill Osbourne's seat. No rumors yet on who will take over Griffin's job.

UPDATE: According to BuzzFeed News, Griffin had sent an email asking her celebrity friends to support her if they feel comfortable doing so.

The email reads:

Date: March 12, 2015
To: Undisclosed recipients: ;
Subject: I Need You!

Here's why I need you...

I went live with the following statement on my social media platforms this evening. I'm reaching out to you because I think you will understand why I have made this decision and I am asking for your support via Twitter, etc. IF you are comfortable. I admire you & your work and hope that you can stand by me. Once again, IF you are comfortable. Oh, and I am nervous and scared about this...in case you're wondering :wink:

Thanks!

XXOO,

Kathy Griffin

The New York Daily News is reporting that E! might cancel "Fashion Police."

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