Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor, an iconic figure in Hollywood, is celebrated for her exceptional acting talent, captivating beauty, and her tumultuous personal life that enchanted and intrigued the world. Known for her roles in classic films and her violet eyes, Taylor's life was as dramatic off-screen as it was onscreen.

ABOUT

Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor was born on February 27, 1932, in Hampstead, London, England. She was a British-American actress, businesswoman, and humanitarian. Over her lifetime, she epitomized the grandeur of Hollywood, starring in numerous classic films and winning multiple prestigious awards, including two Academy Awards for Best Actress. Her career spanned over six decades, making her one of the most enduring and recognizable names in the entertainment industry. Beyond her acting career, Taylor was also known for her extensive humanitarian work, particularly in raising awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS research.

BEFORE FAME

Elizabeth Taylor's foray into acting began at a very young age. She was discovered at the age of nine when she signed a contract with Universal Pictures. Her first film, "There's One Born Every Minute" (1942), marked the beginning of a prolific career. However, it was her role as Velvet Brown in "National Velvet" (1944) that catapulted her to stardom. Her natural talent and on-screen presence quickly earned her a place among Hollywood’s elite.

TRIVIA

1. Elizabeth Taylor’s eyes were famously violet and she had a rare genetic mutation causing a double row of eyelashes, which added to her stunning appearance.
2. She was the first actress to be paid $1 million for a single film, for her role in "Cleopatra" (1963).
3. Taylor was married eight times to seven different men, including two marriages to actor Richard Burton.
4. She became a close friend of pop icon Michael Jackson and was named godmother to his children Paris and Prince.
5. In 1985, Taylor co-founded the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) after the death of her friend Rock Hudson from AIDS.
6. She won two Best Actress Oscars for her roles in "BUtterfield 8" (1960) and "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" (1966).

FAMILY LIFE

Elizabeth Taylor was born to American parents, Francis Lenn Taylor and Sara Sothern, both of whom were originally from Arkansas City, Kansas. Her father was an art dealer and her mother, a former stage actress. Taylor had one older brother, Howard Taylor. Throughout her life, Elizabeth was married eight times to seven different men: Conrad Hilton Jr., Michael Wilding, Mike Todd, Eddie Fisher, Richard Burton (twice), John Warner, and Larry Fortensky. She had four children: Michael and Christopher Wilding, Liza Todd, and Maria Burton. Despite the numerous marriages and publicized personal challenges, Taylor remained devoted to her family and maintained close relationships with her children.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Elizabeth Taylor’s circle included some of Hollywood's biggest names, reflecting her status as a major star. She had a famously volatile relationship with actor Richard Burton; their romance and marriage were the subject of intense media scrutiny and are often cited as one of Hollywood's great love stories. She was also good friends with Montgomery Clift, Rock Hudson, and James Dean, co-starring with them in several films. Taylor's personal and professional associations with other high-profile individuals, including Michael Jackson and Elton John, highlighted her enduring influence and the respect she garnered within the entertainment industry.

Elizabeth Taylor passed away on March 23, 2011, leaving behind a legacy that transcends her successful film career and shines through her philanthropic efforts and indomitable spirit.