14 DAY TRIAL // The wife of Hollywood actor Liam Neeson and daughter of Vanessa Redgrave passed away last night in a New York hospital following an accident on the ski slope. Natasha Richardson was flown from Canada, where the accident occurred, to New York, so that family members could say their good-byes, as she was reportedly brain dead hours after the fall.
A statement from husband Liam Neeson’s publicist confirmed the tragic news, as TMZ and several other US media outlets can confirm. The actor also used the opportunity to publicly thank the millions of fans who had expressed their support and love following the accident.
At the same time, he also requested the media to respect the privacy of the family in these sad moments. Natasha Richardson and Liam Neeson, her husband of 15 years, had two sons.
“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 official statement released a couple of hours ago said.
Richardson was taking ski lessons at a private resort in Quebec, Canada, when the accident took place. Although she was on what is known as the “green slope” (especially designed for beginners), she fell and injured herself. The British actress, who was not wearing a helmet when she fell, got up and laughed the tumble off.
According to a spokesperson at the resort, she also refused medical assistance on the spot, saying she was fine. Reports have it that there was no sign of bleeding or of an impact, which is why she thought the fall was nothing but a minor accident.
However, one hour later she started complaining about severe headaches and asked the staff at the hotel she was staying at to call an ambulance. She was rushed to the hospital, according to reports, already unconscious. Yesterday, as we informed you, Richardson was flown to New York, so that all family members could come by her bedside to see her one last time, as she was allegedly brain dead and had no chances of surviving.
Natasha Richardson, a long-standing presence on the British and international theater and movie scene, was only 45 years old.