Joan Rivers' weekly show Fashion Police is going on hiatus in the wake of her hospitalisation.

E! network has announced the long-running program, which normally airs fresh episodes on Fridays, is on break this week and next, "as we await Joan and Melissa's return in front and behind the camera." Rivers' daughter, Melissa Rivers, is its executive producer.

In its place, the network plans to air two special programs focusing on New York Fashion Week.

Meanwhile, the New York state health department has announced it is investigating the circumstances surrounding Joan's cardiac arrest during an outpatient procedure.

Spokesman James O'Hare said that the department is looking into "the whole matter." He declined to discuss specifics.

Comedian Joan has been moved out of intensive care and is "being kept comfortable", her daughter has said in a statement.

The 81-year-old star was rushed to the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York in a critical condition on Thursday (August 28) after having a heart attack in a doctor's office.

In a statement her daughter Melissa said: "My mother has been moved out of intensive care and into a private room where she is being kept comfortable. Thank you for your continued support."

Earlier in the week her daughter urged the public to pray for her mother's recovery.

She said: ''I want to thank everyone for the overwhelming love and support for my mother. She is resting comfortably and is with our family.

''We ask that you continue to keep her in your thoughts and prayers.''

US news sites reported that Rivers was undergoing a throat procedure in a clinic when she became unwell.

Leading figures from the world of acting have taken to Twitter to pass on messages of best wishes.

Heroes star Zachary Quinto tweeted: ''sending so much love and healing energy to @Joan_Rivers !!! no one is ready to go on without you lady!!!''

Modern Family actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson wrote: ''Sending all my love and prayers to my friend @Joan_Rivers right now.''