Raquel Welch was one of the great sex symbols of the 1960s and '70s. But she was also applauded as a screen icon due to her portrayal of strong female characters. In fact, the actress, once dubbed by Playboy magazine as one of the "100 Sexiest Stars of the Twentieth Century," eventually helped break the mold of the archetypal blonde bombshell so vigorously promoted by Hollywood. A Golden Globe winner, Welch resisted attempts to typecast her despite her famous fur bikini appearance in 'One Million Years B.C.' Sadly, it has been announced that the actress has passed away, at the age of 82.
In honor of her, click through the following gallery for an appreciation of one of the most celebrated women of her generation.