Raquel Welch, Iconic Actress, and Sex Symbol Passes Away at 82.

Raquel Welch, the legendary actress who captured the hearts of millions in the 1960s with her memorable performances in movies like "One Million Years B.C." and "Fantastic Voyage," has died at 82. Her manager, Steve Sauer, confirmed the news that Welch passed away on Wednesday morning in Los Angeles after a brief illness.

Rising to fame as a spokesmodel on the variety show "Hollywood Palace," Welch quickly made a name for herself in Hollywood, appearing in over 70 films and T.V. shows. Her most notable roles include the prehistoric drama "One Million Years B.C.," where she portrayed the stunning cavewoman Loana, and the sci-fi thriller "Fantastic Voyage," where she played a scientist shrunk down and injected into a critically ill man's body.

Throughout the late 1960s, Welch starred in several other popular films, including the westerns "Bandolero!" and "100 Rifles," as well as the movie "Bedazzled," in which she played the character of Lilian Lust. She won a Golden Globe award for Best Actress for her performance in "The Three Musketeers," a film in which she played Constance de Bonacieux.

Welch's iconic roles continued well into the 21st century, with appearances in popular sitcoms such as "Seinfeld," "Spin City," and "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch," and in movies like "Legally Blonde." However, despite her success and diverse roles, Welch was often pigeonholed as a sex symbol, a label she found both flattering and limiting.

In addition to her acting career, Welch was also an entrepreneur, developing her lines of jewelry, skincare products, and wigs.

Welch leaves behind her two children, Damon Welch and Tahnee Welch.

Raquel Welch will remain a true Hollywood icon, an actress who captured the hearts of audiences with her stunning beauty, undeniable talent, and unparalleled charisma. Her contributions to film and television will continue to remember for generations.

A detailed life of Raquel Welch

Raquel Welch is a Hollywood icon, known for her stunning beauty, undeniable talent, and resilient spirit. Born in Chicago in 1940, Welch's rise to fame in the 1960s and 1970s made her a household name and a symbol of female empowerment.

Welch's career began with small roles in films and TV shows, but it was her breakthrough performance in "One Million Years B.C." (1966) that cemented her status as a sex symbol. In the film, Welch portrayed a prehistoric cave woman in a fur bikini, a look that has become one of the most iconic in cinema history.

However, Welch was more than just a pretty face. She proved her acting chops in films such as "Fantastic Voyage" (1966) and "The Three Musketeers" (1973), earning critical acclaim for her performances. She also appeared in a variety of TV shows, including "McCloud," "The Muppet Show," and "Spin City."

In addition to her acting career, Welch also became a businesswoman, launching her own line of wigs and later, a successful line of skincare products. She even dabbled in fitness, releasing several workout videos in the 1980s.

Despite her success, Welch faced her fair share of challenges throughout her career. She was often typecast as a sex symbol and had to fight against the industry's narrow standards of beauty. In an interview with The Guardian, she recalled being told by a casting director, "We already have a Raquel Welch. We don't need another one." However, Welch refused to be pigeonholed and continued to pursue roles that showcased her talent and versatility.

Welch has inspired many people with her strength and tenacity. She has a shattered neck after surviving a nearly fatal vehicle accident in 1994. After months of treatment, she finally recovered completely and went back to work with newfound vigor. Raquel Welch, an actress who captivated viewers with her beautiful beauty, incredible talent, and unmatched personality, will forever be remembered as a true Hollywood star. Generations will remember her for her contributions to film and television.