Famous Money

The Legendary Life and Career of Elizabeth Taylor

David Fulkner

• 3 min read
The Legendary Life and Career of Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor, often referred to as Liz Taylor, remains one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood history. Her journey from a child star to a legendary actress is filled with remarkable achievements, personal triumphs, and a lasting legacy that continues to inspire. This comprehensive article delves into every facet of her life and career, providing insights that go beyond the surface.

Essential Information About Elizabeth Taylor

Full Name Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor
Date of Birth February 27, 1932
Date of Death March 23, 2011
Age (at the time of death) 79
Occupation(s) Movie Actress
Nationality British-American
Height 5'3" (1.60 m)
Net Worth (2011) $600 million
Source of Wealth Acting, Business Ventures
Parents Francis Lenn Taylor, Sara Sothern
Marital Status Married 8 times
Spouse(s) Conrad Hilton Jr., Michael Wilding, Mike Todd, Eddie Fisher, Richard Burton (twice), John Warner, Larry Fortensky
Children Michael Wilding Jr., Christopher Wilding, Liza Todd, Maria Burton
Education Homeschooled
Known for Cleopatra, Butterfield 8, Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
Major Awards Two Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award

Early Years and Family Background

Elizabeth Taylor was born in London, England, to American parents Francis Lenn Taylor and Sara Sothern. Her father's art gallery and her mother's former acting career laid the foundation for Elizabeth's entry into the entertainment industry. With the outbreak of World War II, the Taylor family relocated to Los Angeles, where Elizabeth's striking beauty quickly caught the eye of Hollywood talent scouts.

The Rise of a Star

Initial Steps into Acting

Elizabeth made her film debut at the tender age of 9 with There's One Born Every Minute (1942). Her major breakthrough came with National Velvet (1944), where her portrayal of a young girl training a horse for the Grand National catapulted her to stardom.

Pioneering Roles and Breakthrough Projects

Defining Roles

  • Cleopatra (1963): Elizabeth's portrayal of the Egyptian queen was groundbreaking, not just for her performance but also for the film's unprecedented budget and her record-setting salary.
  • Butterfield 8 (1960): Her role as Gloria Wandrous earned her the first Academy Award for Best Actress.
  • Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966): Starring alongside Richard Burton, Elizabeth's raw and powerful performance won her a second Academy Award.

Collaborative Ventures

Elizabeth's on-screen chemistry with Richard Burton led to 11 films together, including The Taming of the Shrew (1967) and The V.I.P.s (1963). Their tumultuous yet passionate relationship became a media sensation.

Recent and Later Career

Even as she aged, Elizabeth continued to captivate audiences with her performances in films like The Mirror Crack'd (1980) and The Flintstones (1994). Her later years saw her focusing more on philanthropy, particularly in the fight against AIDS.

Financial Triumphs and Net Worth

Elizabeth Taylor was not only a talented actress but also a shrewd businesswoman. Her ventures included a successful fragrance line and various real estate investments. By the time of her death in 2011, her net worth was estimated at $600 million. Key financial milestones include:

  • Fragrance Line: Her perfumes, notably White Diamonds, generated millions annually.
  • Jewelry Collection: She owned some of the world's most famous gems, including the 33-carat Krupp Diamond.

Personal Life and Relationships

Marriages and Family

Elizabeth Taylor's personal life was as dramatic as her on-screen roles. She married eight times to seven different men, with Richard Burton being the only husband she married twice. Her children—Michael, Christopher, Liza, and Maria—were central to her life.

Public Image and Media Coverage

Elizabeth's life was a media magnet. Whether it was her marriages, health struggles, or philanthropic efforts, she remained in the public eye. Despite controversies, she was celebrated for her resilience, beauty, and talent.

Lasting Legacy and Influence

Elizabeth Taylor's impact on Hollywood and society extends beyond her films. She was a pioneer in using her celebrity for social causes, particularly her work in AIDS activism, which earned her the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. Her legacy lives on through her films, charitable work, and the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What was Elizabeth Taylor's first film?

    • Elizabeth made her debut in There's One Born Every Minute (1942).

  2. How many Academy Awards did Elizabeth Taylor win?

    • She won two Academy Awards for Best Actress.

  3. Who was Elizabeth Taylor married to the longest?

    • Richard Burton, whom she married twice.

  4. What was Elizabeth Taylor's net worth at the time of her death?

    • Her net worth was estimated at $600 million.

  5. What is Elizabeth Taylor known for besides acting?

    • She is also known for her philanthropy, particularly in AIDS activism.

Elizabeth Taylor's life is a testament to the power of talent, resilience, and compassion. Her contributions to film and society continue to inspire generations.