Tony Award-Winning Actress, Natasha Richardson Dies At 45 After Freak Ski Accident

Gifted actress and wife of actor Liam Neeson dies at the age of 45 after suffering a head injury during a ski lesson at a Canadian resort. Richardson was having a private ski lesson on a beginner's trail when she fell and suffered a head injury. Richardson was taken to a hospital in Montreal initially, before being flown to a hospital in New York.

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Alan Nierob, publicist for the family released a statement to the public:

"Liam Neeson, his sons and the entire family are shocked and devastated by the tragic death of their beloved Natasha. They are profoundly grateful for the support, love and prayers of everyone, and ask for privacy during this very difficult time."

The statement did not give details on the cause of death for Richardson but early reports state that the actress died as a result of the injury she suffered while taking a private ski lesson. Initials reports say that Richardson was conscious, talking and walking on her own shortly after the accident. It is not clear when her condition deteriorated. Family members had been seen arriving at Lenox Hill Hospital on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout the evening.

Richardson won a Tony award for her performance as Sally Bowles in a 1998 revival of "Cabaret." Natasha divided her time between the screen and the stage. She met husband, Liam Neeson when they debut on Broadway in 1993, co-starring in "Anna Christie."

Richardson's death is a sudden loss for her family, friends, film and theater communities and her many loyal fans.