Lynn Redgrave Dies

Lynn Redgrave Dies

Lynn Redgrave has died aged 67 after a seven-year battle with cancer.

The 'Georgy Girl' star - the sister of actress Vanessa Redgrave and aunt of Joely Richardson - passed away at her home in Connecticut, America, on Sunday night (02.05.10).

According to reports, she had been "gravely ill" with breast cancer for some time which meant her family were able to be at her bedside for her final moments.

A source said: "Those closest to Lynn knew she was ill but it was a closely guarded secret. They spent a treasured last few days with her."

A statement released on behalf of her children - Benjamin, Pema and Annabel Lucy - by her publicist Rick Miramontez read: "Our beloved mother Lynn passed away peacefully after a seven-year journey with breast cancer. She lived, loved and worked harder than ever before. The endless memories she created as a mother, grandmother, actor and friend will sustain us for the rest of our lives. Our family asks for privacy through this difficult time."

The Redgrave family has suffered three bereavements in the space of 12 months. Only a month ago Lynn's 70-year-old brother Corin succumbed to cancer, while last year her niece Natasha Richardson died after a freak skiing accident.

Lynn - who most recently appeared in the US TV shows 'Ugly Betty' and 'Desperate Housewives' - previously underwent a mastectomy in 2003 after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

British talk show host Sir Michael Parkinson yesterday (03.05.10) described her as a "lovely, funny, open character" who was perhaps "one of the most likeable of all her family", while director Michael Winner spoke about how she had been "a joy" to work with.

Winner said: "She was a phenomenal actress, she could do anything with absolute ease."

A private funeral will be held for the star later this week.