Natasha Richardson was remembered at the amfAR’s annual New York gala Wednesday night. The late mother of two joined the amfAR’s board of trustees in 2006. AmfAR is a foundation for AIDS research. Richardson’s father, Tony Richardson, died of AIDS related causes.
Richardson was married to actor Liam Neeson, who is on the board of trustees. The couple had two sons, Micheál and Daniel. Richardson died in a ski accident on March 18th, 2009.
The event was a star-studded affair. The tribute to Richardson was done by Mathilde Krim, Ph.D., Meryl Streep, and Richardson’s mother, Vanessa Redgrave.
Redgrave spoke to her daughter during the ceremony, “My darling Natasha, I’m so proud of your courage, your hard work, your total commitment and your beautiful, life-giving spirit. Thank you,” she said.
Lady Gaga performed at the event. According to PEOPLE, Meryl Streep sang as well (immediately after Gaga). “It really takes guts to get up and sing after Lady Gaga,” Streep said. She sang a traditional Irish Song, “The Parting Glass.” The song ended as follows: “But as it falls unto my lot that I should rise and you should not, I’ll gently rise and I’ll softly call, ‘Goodnight and joy be with you all!’ “
Other celebs commented on what a wonderful woman Richardson was. PEOPLE reported that fashion designer Donna Karen, who designed Richardson’s wedding gown, said that the Richardson was “a woman full of joy and happiness.”
According to amfAR’s event page, such names as Donna Karan, Liam Neeson, Vanessa Redgrave, Joely Richardson, Carine Roitfeld, Sharon Stone, Diane von Furstenberg, and Anna Wintour were chairs of the event.
Sir Elton John, David Furnish and Yves Carcelle were honorees at the event.
