Kathy Griffin to replace Joan Rivers on 'Fashion Police'

LOS ANGELES (Variety.com) - It's official: Kathy Griffin will take the reins of "Fashion Police" following the death of its former host, Joan Rivers, E! announced Monday.

The series will return with Golden Globes coverage on Jan. 25, 2015.

"Not only was Joan a trailblazer, she was also a dear friend and mentor to Kathy, who will no doubt continue her legacy and do the series justice by bringing her own unique comedic style and tell-it-like-it-is personality to the host chair," said Jeff Olde, executive vice president, programming and development, E! in a statement. "Plus, the addition of trendsetting stylist Brad completes the panel as the show begins its next chapter, which will focus on covering the major award shows and fashion events throughout the year."

"I get it! These are some big shoes I'm going to fill. Joan was truly one of a kind," said Griffin. "Now I hope you will accept me for me. I'm just Kathy. Did I say I'm just Kathy? I meant I'm Kathy F--ing Griffin and you celebrities better strap yourself in, as I am taking no prisoners. I am not holding back so DAMMIT let's have some fun!"

Another new change E! announced is that Brad Goreski will be joining the show. While a press release confirmed that co-hosts Giuliana Rancic and Kelly Osbourne will return, their was no confirmation on the return of George Kotsiopoulos.

E! confirmed in September that "Fashion Police" would go on without Rivers, though her death forced the show to go on hiatus. Griffin was widely rumored to take over for her, and went so far as to say the job was offered to her, but said she wasn't sure it was the role for her.

"They did offer it to me," Griffin told Access Hollywood early this month. "I don't know if the situation is correct at this time for me or right for me at this time."

"Fashion Police" has aired on E! since 2010 with hosts Rancic, Osbourne, Kotsiopoulos and Rivers, until her death on Sept. 4.