Sad news that you no doubt know: actress Natasha Richardson died yesterday from injuries sustained in a skiing accident.  Although she worked largely in film and theatre, some of television's leading ladies spoke out, expressing their grief and offering condolences to her family and friends...

Oprah Winfrey:
"I just want to say how deeply saddened I am, we all are, by the sudden passing of actress Natasha Richardson yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers are with her husband Liam Neeson, their two sons, the rest of their family and friends. Yet another reminder of how fleeting life can be and how precious. We need to value every moment."

Kelly Ripa:
"She was a lady. I can't tell you enough what a good person she was, and fun and vivacious and the most full of life."

Martha Stewart (via Twitter):
"Just heard the tragic news about poor Natasha Richardson. Her family must be devastated. My sincerest condolences to all." (Us Magazine)

As our own little farewell, here's a clip of Natasha as one of our favorite guest judges on this past season of Top Chef...

Top Chef's Padma Lakshmi (Richardson was a guest judge):
"She was great. She was lovely. She was just like one of the gang. She was very, very articulate. She was very, very opinionated. She was very compassionate. She had a very sophisticated palate." (Us Magazine)

Previously:

 Top Chef: New Girl Crush