Elizabeth Arden head comments on death of Elizabeth Taylor

NEW YORK — Violet-eyed Elizabeth Taylor was a legendary actress who not only made a lasting impression on the big screen with her sultry screen persona but also had a tremendous impact on the fragrance industry with the launch of her first fragrance in 1987.

Taylor died Wednesday of congestive heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. She was 79.

Commenting on her death, Elizabeth Arden chairman and CEO, E. Scott Beattie, stated, "It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of Elizabeth Taylor, the legendary actress, activist and businesswoman. As her business partner in the fragrance industry, we have held her in the highest esteem and have had tremendous respect for her extraordinary compassion, creativity and business acumen."

"With the launch of her first fragrance in 1987, Elizabeth Taylor's Passion, she built a fragrance empire and one of the most successful brands in fragrance history," Beattie continued. "White Diamonds remains a best seller almost 20 years after its 1991 introduction, a testimony to her transcendent and enduring appeal. Our best tribute to Elizabeth Taylor will be to continue the legacy of the brands she created and loved so much."

"Her sense of humor, passion for life, never-ending dedication and generosity of spirit will be remembered by all of us. She will be deeply missed," Beattie concluded.