Natasha Richardson

Natasha Richardson 1999

Natasha Richardson (11 May 1963 – 18 March 2009) was an English actress of stage and screen. She was a member of the Redgrave family, known for their contributions to the acting world. Richardson was the daughter of actress Vanessa Redgrave and director Tony Richardson, and the granddaughter of actors Michael Redgrave and Rachel Kempson.

Early Life

Natasha Richardson was born in Marylebone, London, England. She was educated at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London. Her family background in the performing arts significantly influenced her career path.

Career

Richardson began her acting career in regional theatre, making her professional debut at the West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds. She gained prominence with her role in the 1985 film The Handmaid's Tale. She continued to build her career with notable performances in films such as Patty Hearst (1988), The Parent Trap (1998), and Maid in Manhattan (2002).

In addition to her film work, Richardson was highly regarded for her stage performances. She won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role as Sally Bowles in the 1998 revival of Cabaret on Broadway.

Personal Life

Richardson married actor Liam Neeson in 1994. The couple had two sons, Micheál and Daniel. The family resided in Millbrook, New York.

Death

On 16 March 2009, Richardson sustained a head injury while taking a beginner skiing lesson at the Mont Tremblant Resort in Quebec, Canada. She initially appeared to be fine but later developed a severe headache and was taken to a local hospital. She was transferred to Hôpital Sacré-Cœur de Montréal and then to Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, where she died on 18 March 2009. The cause of death was an epidural hematoma.

Legacy

Natasha Richardson is remembered for her significant contributions to both film and theatre. Her performances have left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike. She is also remembered for her charitable work, particularly her support for AmfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research.

Filmography

• Gothic (1986)
• Patty Hearst (1988)
• The Handmaid's Tale (1990)
• Nell (1994)
• The Parent Trap (1998)
• Maid in Manhattan (2002)

Awards and Nominations

• Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical (1998) - Cabaret
• Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actress in a Musical (1998) - Cabaret

See Also

• Redgrave family
• Vanessa Redgrave
• Liam Neeson
• Tony Richardson