Natasha Richardson

A scion of the Redgrave acting dynasty, Natasha Richardson offered impressive performances in a handful of film and television appearances, often employing a flawless American accent despite her proper British upbringing. Though she made her acting debut when she was just four years old, Richardson officially began her career doing regional theater in London and Leeds, where she delivered a sterling performance in "The Seagull" (1985). Much like her famous mother, Vanessa Redgrave, Richardson managed to avoid working alongside her own sibling, actress Joely Richardson, for the better part of her career. She also eschewed wanting to be identified with the family name, choosing instead to carve out an identity of her own. Richardson ultimately succeeded, becoming an acclaimed actress in her own right by delivering strong and memorable performances in both critically acclaimed fare like "Cabaret" (1998) and "Haven" (CBS, 2001), as well as in high-profile studio projects like "The Parent Trap" (1998) and "Maid in Manhattan" (2002). Not long after appearing with her mother in the films "The White Countess" (2005) and "Evening" (2007), the 45-year-old Richardson died tragically after being injured in a skiing accident in March 2009, leaving behind her husband, actor Liam Neeson, and their two young sons. Taken far too young, Richardson nevertheless left an indelible mark on the worlds of stage and screen, touching all who knew her personally and the fans who had enjoyed her elegant work as an actress.