Raquel Welch, legendary bombshell actress, dies at 82 after brief illness

Raquel Welch, the legendary bombshell actress who captivated audiences for decades, has died after a brief illness. She was 82.

Welch died early Wednesday morning, her manager confirmed. Details about the illness were not released.

Her career spanned over 50 years, starring in over 30 films and 50 television series and appearances. Welch first gained attention for her roles in the 1966 films "Fantastic Voyage" and "One Million Years B.C.," which established her as an iconic sex symbol.

Her more recent work included roles in "Legally Blonde" and "How to Be a Latin Lover."

The Golden Globe winner was also involved with a successful line of wigs, her manager said.

Admirers took to Twitter to mourn the star, including TV host Rosie O'Donnell, actor Chris Meloni and writer-director Paul Feig, who worked with Welch on "Sabrina the Teenage Witch" and called her "Kind, funny and a true superstar whom I was pretty much in love with for most of my childhood. We've lost a true icon."

In addition to acting, Welch was a singer and dancer. She surprised many critics - and won positive reviews - when she starred in the 1981 musical "Woman of the Year" on Broadway, replacing a vacationing Lauren Bacall. She returned to the Great White Way in 1997 in "Victor/Victoria."

She leaves behind her two children, Damon and Tahnee Welch.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.