Following the tragic news of Raquel Welch’s passing, Reese Witherspoon has led tributes to her.
The actress died at the age of 82, according to her manager, Steve Sauer, who confirmed the news on Wednesday (February 15).
He stated that she ‘went away quietly early this morning following a brief illness,’ although the cause of death remains unknown.
Tributes have flooded in for the award-winning actress, with Reese, 46, praising her former co-star.
The actress co-starred with late star Welch in the 2001 rom-com, with Reese playing Elle Woods and late star Welch playing Mrs Windham Vandermark.
Elle met her character, an intriguing widow, at a luxury spa day.
Taking to social media with a glowing tribute, Reese wrote on Twitter: ‘So sad to hear about Raquel Welch’s passing. I loved working with her on Legally Blonde.
‘She was elegant, professional and glamorous beyond belief. Simply stunning. May all her angels carry her home’, followed by a dove emoji.
‘Sending love to her family and her many fans’, she signed off with a love heart.
Media Four, Welch’s management business, has also paid homage to the late actress.
‘Raquel Welch, the iconic bombshell actress of cinema, television, and stage, died away peacefully early this morning following a brief illness,’ the firm stated in a statement.
‘Her career spanned over 50 years, starring in over 30 films and 50 television series and appearances.
‘The Golden Globe winner, in more recent years, was involved in a very successful line of wigs.
‘Raquel leaves behind her two children, son Damon Welch and her daughter, Tahnee Welch.’
Welch gained to prominence in the 1960s with roles in the science-fiction film Fantastic Voyage and the fantasy film One Million Years BC.
The movie actress went on to become one of the most in-demand stars in Hollywood and an international sex symbol.
Welch was noted for playing powerful female roles, and her portrayal in The Three Musketeers earned her a Golden Globe Award for best motion picture actress in a musical or comedy in 1974.
She also received a Golden Globe nomination for her role in the 1987 drama Right to Die.