Elizabeth Taylor - Overview

Full Name

Dame Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor

Birth Information

• Date: February 27, 1932
• Place: Hampstead, London, England
• Death: March 23, 2011 (age 79)
• Place of Death: Los Angeles, California, United States

Nationality

British-American (dual citizenship)

Physical Stats

• Height: 5‘2” (1.57 m)
• Hair Color: Dark brown (naturally); famously known for various shades including raven black
• Eyes: Famous violet/blue eyes (insured for $1 million)
• Build: Curvaceous; figure changed significantly over career

Active Years

1942–2003 (over 60 years in film and television)

Primary Occupations

Actress, Businesswoman, Humanitarian, HIV/AIDS Activist

Known For

• Legendary violet eyes and stunning beauty
• Two Academy Awards for Best Actress
• Eight marriages to seven different men (married Richard Burton twice)
• Iconic films: “Cleopatra,” “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?,” “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” “Giant”
• Pioneering HIV/AIDS activism and fundraising
• Created first celebrity fragrance empire
• Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (2000)

Elizabeth Taylor - Early Life

Family Background

Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor was born into an affluent American family living in London: - Father: Francis Lenn Taylor (1897-1968) - Art dealer with successful gallery in London - Mother: Sara Sothern (née Warmbrodt) (1895-1994) - Former stage actress - Older Brother: Howard Taylor - Family Status: Wealthy, socially connected, cultured

Birth and Early Years

Born in London

Elizabeth was born at Heathwood, her parents’ home in Hampstead, London, on February 27, 1932. Her American parents were living in England due to her father’s art business.

Dual Citizenship

Born to American citizens abroad, she held dual British-American citizenship throughout her life.

Privileged Upbringing

Taylor’s early childhood was one of privilege: - Lived in fashionable Hampstead - Surrounded by art and culture - Frequent visits to theater and galleries - Private education - Social connections to British aristocracy and American expatriates

Move to America

World War II Impact

In 1939, with war looming in Europe: - Family moved to United States - Settled in Los Angeles - Her father’s business connections led to Hollywood contacts - The move would change Elizabeth’s life forever

Life in Los Angeles

• Lived in Pacific Palisades
• Attended school in Los Angeles
• Mother encouraged performing arts
• Natural beauty attracted attention immediately

Early Acting Career

First Film Role (1942)

• There’s One Born Every Minute - Universal Pictures
• Age 9, one scene, minimal impact
• Contract not renewed (studio claimed her eyes were too old for her face)

MGM Contract (1943)

• Signed with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer after intervention by family friend
• Mother actively pursued stardom for Elizabeth
• Began intensive training at MGM studio school

Lassie Come Home (1943)

• Breakthrough role at age 11
• Warm reception from audiences and critics
• Established her as child star

National Velvet (1944)

• Age 12 - Career-defining performance
• Played Velvet Brown, girl who wins horse and rides in Grand National
• Film massive success
• Taylor insisted on doing her own riding stunts
• Established her as major child star
• Remains one of her most beloved films

Childhood Stardom

MGM Studio System

Taylor grew up within the studio system: - Attended studio school with other child actors - Strict schedule of filming and education - Controlled public image - Limited normal childhood experiences

Early Films (1944-1949)

• Courage of Lassie (1946) - Another Lassie film
• Life with Father (1947) - Family comedy
• A Date with Judy (1948) - Teen role
• Julia Misbehaves (1948) - Supporting role
• Little Women (1949) - Amy March

Physical Development

Early Beauty

Taylor’s appearance was notable from childhood: - Striking violet/blue eyes (rare color) - Dark, thick eyelashes (double row) - Perfect complexion - Dark hair - Developed mature figure at young age

Health Issues

Even as a child experienced: - Various childhood illnesses - Back problems that would plague her life - First of many surgeries

Education

• MGM studio school (formal education ended at 15)
• Focused on practical subjects
• Dance and singing lessons
• Acting coaching
• Limited traditional schooling

Early Influences

Mother’s Ambition

Sara Taylor was instrumental: - Pushed Elizabeth’s career aggressively - Managed early career decisions - Sacrificed normal childhood for stardom - Remained influential figure throughout life

MGM Training

Studio provided: - Acting coaches - Voice teachers - Dance instructors - Image consultants - Etiquette training

Co-Stars and Directors

Learned from Hollywood legends: - Roddy McDowall (lifelong friend from “Lassie Come Home”) - Mickey Rooney (“National Velvet”) - Various MGM contract players

Transition to Adult Roles

By late 1940s: - Outgrowing child roles - Developing mature beauty - Ready for adult stardom - MGM preparing transition strategy

Personal Characteristics (Youth)

Personality

• Determined and strong-willed
• Close to her mother
• Developed early interest in jewelry
• Love of animals (especially horses)
• Strong Catholic faith (later converted to Judaism)

Early Relationships

• Dated within Hollywood circle
• First serious relationship with Glenn Davis (football player)
• Brief engagement before first marriage

Conclusion

Elizabeth Taylor’s early life was shaped by: - Privileged upbringing in England - Hollywood studio system - Mother’s ambition - Extraordinary beauty - Natural talent

These factors combined to create one of cinema’s most enduring stars, though at the cost of a normal childhood and education. The foundation laid in these early years would support a career spanning six decades and a life of extraordinary highs and lows.

Elizabeth Taylor - Career

Transition to Adult Stardom (1950-1955)

Father of the Bride (1950)

• Taylor’s transition to adult roles
• Played bride Kay Banks
• Massive commercial success
• Established her as leading lady

A Place in the Sun (1951)

• Angela Vickers - Pivotal dramatic role
• Co-starred with Montgomery Clift
• Film noir classic
• Showed dramatic depth
• One of her finest performances

Ivanhoe (1952)

• Historical epic
• Solidified romantic lead status

Giant (1956)

• Leslie Benedict - Epic Texas saga
• Co-starred Rock Hudson and James Dean (his final film)
• Directed by George Stevens
• Four-hour epic
• Dealt with racism, class, and changing Texas
• Academy Award nomination for Best Actress

Peak Years and Oscar Success (1957-1967)

Raintree County (1957)

• Susanna Drake - Civil War epic
• First Academy Award nomination for Best Actress
• Dramatic role as mentally unstable character
• Co-starred Montgomery Clift

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958)

• Maggie the Cat - Tennessee Williams adaptation
• Second Academy Award nomination
• Iconic performance as desperate wife
• Chemistry with Paul Newman
• “Mendacity!” scene became classic

Suddenly, Last Summer (1959)

• Catherine Holly - Another Tennessee Williams adaptation
• Third Academy Award nomination
• Controversial subject matter (lobotomy, homosexuality)
• Co-starred Katharine Hepburn and Montgomery Clift

BUtterfield 8 (1960)

• Gloria Wandrous - Call girl drama
• First Academy Award win: Best Actress
• Taylor called it a “piece of obscenity”
• Accepted role to fulfill MGM contract
• Victory somewhat controversial (many felt she won for near-death illness rather than performance)

Cleopatra (1963)

• Cleopatra - Epic historical drama
• Most expensive film ever made at time
• Production plagued by problems:
• Taylor’s near-fatal illness
• Replacement of director and cast
• Extramarital affair with Richard Burton (both married)
• Co-starred Richard Burton
• Became highest-paid actress in history ($1 million plus percentage)
• Despite criticism, iconic performance and imagery

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966)

• Martha - Edward Albee adaptation
• Second Academy Award win: Best Actress
• Most critically acclaimed performance
• Volatile, complex character
• Co-starred Richard Burton
• Both leads won Oscars
• Film won five total Academy Awards

The Taming of the Shrew (1967)

• Katherina - Shakespeare adaptation
• Co-starred Richard Burton
• Comedic role showed versatility
• Successful commercial and critical reception

Later Film Career (1968-2003)

Declining Quality (Late 1960s-1970s)

• Doctor Faustus (1967) - With Burton
• The Comedians (1967) - Graham Greene adaptation
• Reflections in a Golden Eye (1967) - John Huston film with Marlon Brando
• Boom! (1968) - Tennessee Williams adaptation with Burton
• Secret Ceremony (1968) - With Mia Farrow and Robert Mitchum
• The Only Game in Town (1970) - With Warren Beatty
• Under Milk Wood (1972) - Dylan Thomas adaptation
• Hammersmith Is Out (1972) - With Burton
• Divorce His, Divorce Hers (1973) - TV movie with Burton
• Ash Wednesday (1973) - Plastic surgery drama
• The Driver’s Seat (1974) - Italian drama
• The Blue Bird (1976) - All-star fantasy
• A Little Night Music (1977) - Musical
• Winter Kills (1979) - Political thriller

Career Lull (1980s)

• The Mirror Crack’d (1980) - Agatha Christie adaptation
• Between Friends (1983) - TV movie
• Malice in Wonderland (1985) - TV movie as Louella Parsons
• North and South (1985) - Miniseries
• There Must Be a Pony (1986) - TV movie

Return to Film (1990s-2000s)

• The Flintstones (1994) - Cameo as Pearl Slaghoople
• The Shadow (1994) - Brief appearance
• These Old Broads (2001) - TV movie with Debbie Reynolds and Shirley MacLaine
• God, the Devil and Bob (2000) - Voice work (canceled series)

Final Performance

• ** voiced Maggie Simpson in…** various animated projects
• Final live-action work in 2003
• Health issues limited later career

Television Work

Notable TV Movies

• Divorce His, Divorce Hers (1973) - With Burton
• Between Friends (1983)
• Malice in Wonderland (1985) - As gossip columnist Louella Parsons
• There Must Be a Pony (1986)
• Sweet Bird of Youth (1989) - With Mark Harmon
• These Old Broads (2001) - Final significant performance

Miniseries

• North and South (1985) - Civil War epic
• North and South, Book II (1986)

Business Ventures

Elizabeth Taylor Fragrances (1987)

• Launched “Passion” perfume
• Created first successful celebrity fragrance line
• Eventually included:
• White Diamonds (most successful)
• Passion
• Diamonds and Emeralds
• Diamonds and Rubies
• Diamonds and Sapphires
• Generated over $1 billion in sales during her lifetime
• Continues posthumously

Jewelry Collection

• Famous jewelry collector
• Wrote book “Elizabeth Taylor: My Love Affair with Jewelry”
• Collection auctioned for millions after her death

Box Office Performance

Major Grossing Films

• “Cleopatra” - Highest-grossing film of 1963 despite huge cost
• “Giant” - Major success
• “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” - Commercial and critical hit
• “The Taming of the Shrew” - Successful

Commercial Challenges

Many later films failed commercially despite star power.

Career Summary Statistics

• 50+ films over 61-year career
• 2 Academy Award wins
• 5 Academy Award nominations
• Multiple Golden Globes, BAFTAs, and other honors
• First actress to earn $1 million for single film (“Cleopatra”)

Career Assessment

Elizabeth Taylor’s career had distinct phases: 1. Child Star (1942-1949) - Successful transition from child to teen roles 2. Young Adult Stardom (1950-1956) - Established as major leading lady 3. Peak Years (1957-1968) - Greatest artistic achievements and Oscar wins 4. Burton Years (1963-1974) - Professional and personal entanglement 5. Decline (1975-1990) - Limited quality material 6. Retirement (1990-2011) - Health issues and fragrance empire focus

Her legacy rests primarily on films from 1950-1968, with “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” and “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” representing her artistic peak.

Elizabeth Taylor - Major Achievements

Academy Awards (Oscars)

Wins (2)

• 1961 - Winner: Best Actress for “BUtterfield 8” (1960)
• Played call girl Gloria Wandrous

• Controversial win (many felt she won for near-death illness rather than performance)

• 1967 - Winner: Best Actress for “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” (1966)

• Played Martha
• Universally acclaimed performance
• Considered one of cinema’s greatest acting achievements
• First actress to win $1 million salary

Nominations (5 total)

• 1958 - Nomination: Best Actress for “Raintree County” (1957)
• 1959 - Nomination: Best Actress for “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” (1958)
• 1960 - Nomination: Best Actress for “Suddenly, Last Summer” (1959)
• 1967 - Winner (see above)

British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA)

Wins

• BAFTA Award for Best British Actress - Multiple wins for various performances
• BAFTA Fellowship (1999) - Lifetime achievement

Nominations

• Multiple nominations throughout her career

Golden Globe Awards

Wins

• 1960 - Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Drama for “Suddenly, Last Summer”
• 1974 - Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy for “Ash Wednesday”
• 1985 - Cecil B. DeMille Award - Lifetime achievement
• Multiple Henrietta Awards (World Film Favorite - Female)

Nominations

• Numerous nominations across decades

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Special Awards

Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award (1993)

• Honorary Oscar for humanitarian work
• Recognized her pioneering HIV/AIDS activism
• Accepted during period when she had largely stopped acting

British Honors

Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (2000)

• Bestowed by Queen Elizabeth II
• For services to acting and charity
• Became “Dame Elizabeth Taylor”
• One of few non-British citizens to receive this honor

Screen Actors Guild Awards

Life Achievement Award

• 1997 - Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award
• Recognized career excellence and humanitarian contributions

Other Major Awards

David di Donatello Awards (Italy)

• Best Foreign Actress wins for various performances

Fotogramas de Plata (Spain)

• Best Foreign Movie Performer multiple wins

Laurel Awards

• Golden Laurel wins for various performances
• Recognized by film exhibitors

National Board of Review

• Best Actress for “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”
• Various other citations

New York Film Critics Circle

• Best Actress for “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”

Career Distinctions and Records

Financial Milestones

• First actress to earn $1 million for a single film (“Cleopatra,” 1963)
• First actress to receive percentage of gross profits
• Set salary records multiple times
• Highest-paid actress of 1960s

Career Longevity Records

• Acted professionally for 61 years (1942-2003)
• Starred in films across seven decades
• One of few child stars with 50+ year career at top
• Final performance at age 69

Awards Records

• One of only 12 actors to win two competitive Best Actress Oscars
• Received Oscar nominations in three consecutive years (1958-1960)
• One of few actresses nominated for Oscar and winning in consecutive years

Humanitarian Awards

AIDS Activism Recognition

• American Foundation for AIDS Research (AmFAR) - Co-founded and led fundraising
• Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF) - Founded 1991
• Presidential Citizens Medal - Bill Clinton awarded for AIDS work
• French Legion of Honour - For humanitarian work
• GLAAD Vanguard Award - For advocacy
• Countless other honors for AIDS activism

AIDS Fundraising

• Raised over $100 million for AIDS research and treatment
• Pioneer in celebrity AIDS activism
• Changed public perception of HIV/AIDS

Business Achievement Awards

Fragrance Industry

• FiFi Awards (fragrance industry Oscars) - Multiple wins
• Created first billion-dollar celebrity fragrance line
• “White Diamonds” remains one of best-selling celebrity fragrances ever

Posthumous Recognition

AFI and Legacy Honors

• Regularly featured in American Film Institute lists
• Named one of greatest female screen legends
• Films preserved in National Film Registry

Summary of Major Honors

• 2 Academy Awards (Best Actress)
• 5 Academy Award nominations
• 1 Honorary Oscar (Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award)
• 1 BAFTA Fellowship
• Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire
• SAG Life Achievement Award
• Cecil B. DeMille Award (Golden Globes)
• Multiple Golden Globe wins
• Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award
• Presidential Citizens Medal
• Legion of Honour

Elizabeth Taylor’s awards reflect both her extraordinary acting career and her equally significant humanitarian work. No other actress of her era combined artistic excellence with social impact to the same degree.

Elizabeth Taylor - Acting Technique and Style

Acting Approach

Studio System Training

Taylor’s technique was shaped by the MGM studio system: - Formal acting classes at studio school - Voice training and diction lessons - Dance and movement instruction - On-the-job learning from experienced directors - No formal “method” training but natural emotional availability

Instinctive Acting

Taylor was primarily an instinctive actress rather than a technique-driven one: - Relied on natural emotional responses - Listened and reacted to co-stars - Used her striking physical presence effectively - Had exceptional photogenic qualities

Signature Elements

The Eyes

Taylor’s most famous physical attribute was her eyes: - Rare violet/blue color (actually deep blue appearing violet) - Double row of dark eyelashes (distichiasis - medical condition) - Exceptionally expressive - Could convey complex emotions with minimal movement - Often filmed in close-up to emphasize their impact

Emotional Intensity

Taylor excelled at conveying deep emotion: - Particularly effective in scenes of anger, desperation, and passion - Unafraid to appear unglamorous for roles - Volatile energy in dramatic confrontations - Vulnerability beneath strength

Physical Transformation

Throughout her career, her body changed significantly: - Started as slender teenager - Developed voluptuous figure in 1950s - Weight fluctuations throughout life - Used physical changes for roles when appropriate - “Ash Wednesday” (1973) addressed aging and plastic surgery

Voice

Distinctive vocal qualities: - Slightly husky, lower register - British-influenced American accent - Could project both fragility and strength - Effective in both dramatic and comedic delivery

Genre Versatility

Drama

Taylor’s strongest suit: - “A Place in the Sun” - Tragic romance - “Giant” - Epic family saga - “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” - Tennessee Williams intensity - “Suddenly, Last Summer” - Psychological drama - “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” - Marital warfare

Epic/Historical

• “Ivanhoe” - Medieval adventure
• “Cleopatra” - Historical epic (despite criticism, iconic)
• “The Taming of the Shrew” - Shakespearean comedy

Comedy

More limited but capable: - “Father of the Bride” - Light comedy - “The Taming of the Shrew” - Physical comedy - “The Flintstones” (cameo) - Self-parody

Technical Strengths

Chemistry with Co-Stars

Taylor had legendary chemistry with several leading men: - Montgomery Clift - Intense emotional connection (3 films) - James Dean - Brief but memorable (“Giant”) - Paul Newman - Smoldering tension (“Cat on a Hot Tin Roof”) - Richard Burton - Explosive passion (11 films together)

Screen Presence

Even in mediocre films, Taylor commanded attention: - Natural star quality - Photographed beautifully in any lighting - Held the screen in ensemble casts - Audience couldn’t look away

Vulnerability

Her willingness to show vulnerability was key: - Exposed emotional rawness - Physical vulnerability (illness scenes) - Aging openly on screen (“Virginia Woolf” makeup) - Personal life informed performances

Evolution as an Actor

Child Star (1942-1949)

Natural, unaffected child performances: - “National Velvet” showed determination and authenticity - No precocious “acting” - Genuine connection with animals (Lassie, National Velvet horse)

Young Adult (1950-1956)

Developing dramatic range: - “A Place in the Sun” showed maturity - Transition to adult roles seamless - Romantic lead chemistry established

Peak Years (1957-1967)

Greatest artistic achievements: - Tennessee Williams mastery - “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” represents peak - Technical precision combined with emotional depth - Fully mature artist

Burton Years (1963-1974)

Professional entanglement with personal: - Some excellent work (“Virginia Woolf,” “Taming”) - Some mediocre films capitalizing on notoriety - Chemistry with Burton often overwhelmed material

Later Career (1975-2003)

Declining opportunities but occasional moments: - Limited by health and age - Fragrances took priority - Made memorable TV appearances - Final work in “These Old Broads” showed undiminished spark

Critical Assessment

Strengths

Critics consistently noted: - Extraordinary beauty that never overwhelmed performances - Emotional authenticity - Chemistry with co-stars - Courage in tackling difficult material - “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” universally acclaimed

Limitations

Some critics observed: - Uneven filmography (many mediocre films) - Limited range compared to some peers - Personal life sometimes overshadowed work - Inconsistent script selection

Comparison to Contemporaries

Vs. Other 1950s Actresses

• Grace Kelly - More elegant, less emotionally raw
• Audrey Hepburn - Different type entirely, lighter touch
• Marilyn Monroe - Both had physical gifts but Taylor more dramatic
• Katharine Hepburn - Less technically trained but equally compelling

Unique Qualities

Taylor’s combination of: - Unprecedented beauty - Emotional intensity - Box office draw - Longevity - Cultural impact

Made her unique among her generation.

Conclusion

Elizabeth Taylor was not a “technical” actress in the method sense, but her instinctive approach, combined with extraordinary physical gifts and genuine emotional availability, created performances that remain powerful decades later. Her work in “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” and “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” represents classic Hollywood acting at its most raw and compelling. She proved that movie star charisma and serious acting talent could coexist at the highest levels.

Elizabeth Taylor - Personal Life

Marriages (8 Marriages to 7 Husbands)

First Marriage: Conrad “Nicky” Hilton Jr.

• Married: May 6, 1950 (age 18)
• Divorced: February 1, 1951
• Hotel heir (son of Hilton Hotels founder)
• Marriage arranged partly for publicity
• Hilton’s gambling, drinking, and abuse led to quick divorce
• Miscarriage during marriage

Second Marriage: Michael Wilding

• Married: February 21, 1952
• Divorced: January 26, 1957
• British actor (20 years her senior)
• Two children:
• Michael Howard Wilding (born 1953)
• Christopher Edward Wilding (born 1955)
• Divorce due to age difference and career conflicts
• Remained friendly after divorce

Third Marriage: Mike Todd

• Married: February 2, 1957
• Ended: March 22, 1958 (death)
• Film producer (“Around the World in 80 Days”)
• Taylor called him the love of her life
• Died in plane crash (Lucky Liz was supposed to be on the flight)
• Pregnant with daughter when he died
• Deeply traumatic loss

Fourth Marriage: Eddie Fisher

• Married: May 12, 1959
• Divorced: March 6, 1964
• Singer; married him after Todd’s death
• Controversial marriage - Fisher left Debbie Reynolds for Taylor
• Created major scandal (“National Velvet” girl steals America’s sweetheart’s husband)
• Marriage ended when Taylor met Richard Burton

Fifth and Sixth Marriages: Richard Burton

First Marriage

• Married: March 15, 1964
• Divorced: June 26, 1974
• Welsh actor; met on “Cleopatra” set (both married at the time)
• Scandalous affair became international obsession
• Volatile, passionate relationship
• Adopted daughter Maria from Germany together
• Both struggled with alcohol
• Made 11 films together

Second Marriage

• Married: October 10, 1975
• Divorced: August 1, 1976
• Reconciled after first divorce but couldn’t sustain relationship
• Remained close until Burton’s death in 1984

Seventh Marriage: John Warner

• Married: December 4, 1976
• Divorced: November 5, 1982
• Republican U.S. Senator from Virginia
• Taylor campaigned for his election
• Marriage limited by political lifestyle
• Became bored as “Senator’s wife”

Eighth Marriage: Larry Fortensky

• Married: October 6, 1991
• Divorced: October 31, 1996
• Construction worker (20 years younger)
• Met at Betty Ford Center
• Wedding at Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch
• Marriage lasted 5 years
• Fortensky received $1 million divorce settlement

Children

Michael Howard Wilding

• Born: January 6, 1953
• Father: Michael Wilding
• Actor and artist
• Four children (Elizabeth’s grandchildren)

Christopher Edward Wilding

• Born: February 27, 1955
• Father: Michael Wilding
• Works in film industry
• Two adopted children

Elizabeth “Liza” Frances Todd

• Born: August 6, 1957
• Father: Mike Todd
• Sculptor and artist
• Married with children

Maria Burton

• Born: August 1, 1961 (adopted 1964)
• Adopted with Richard Burton
• Works in philanthropy
• Married with children

Health Struggles

Physical Health

Taylor experienced extraordinary health problems throughout life: - Born with amniotic sac intact - considered good luck - Scarlet fever as child - Back problems - lifelong issues, multiple surgeries - Pneumonia - nearly died in 1961 during “Cleopatra” filming - Emergency tracheotomy saved her life - Won Oscar that year (many felt it was sympathy vote) - Osteoporosis - severe bone density loss - Hip replacements - multiple surgeries - Heart problems - congestive heart failure - Lung issues - from years of smoking

Addiction and Recovery

• Alcohol addiction - began in Burton years
• Prescription drug addiction - pain medication for various ailments
• Betty Ford Center - entered treatment in 1983
• Public recovery - open about struggles, helped destigmatize addiction
• Remained sober after treatment
• Advocate for addiction recovery

Religious Conversion

Catholic to Jewish

• Raised Catholic
• Converted to Judaism in 1959 (before marrying Eddie Fisher)
• Devout in her faith
• Supported Jewish causes throughout life
• Had Jewish funeral and burial

Personal Interests

Jewelry Collection

• One of history’s greatest jewelry collectors
• Famous pieces:
• 33.19-carat Krupp Diamond (Richard Burton gift)
• 69.42-carat Taylor-Burton Diamond
• La Peregrina pearl (500 years old)
• Wrote book: “Elizabeth Taylor: My Love Affair with Jewelry”
• Collection auctioned for $156.8 million after her death (benefited ETAF)

Art Collection

• Grew up with art dealer father
• Developed sophisticated taste
• Collected significant works

Animals

• Lifelong love of animals
• Famous for dogs (particularly Maltese)
• Horses (“National Velvet” sparked passion)
• Supported animal welfare causes

Philanthropy and Activism

AIDS Activism

Taylor’s most significant contribution beyond acting: - Began 1984 - after Rock Hudson’s death - Co-founded AmFAR (American Foundation for AIDS Research) - 1985 - Founded ETAF (Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation) - 1991 - Raised over $100 million for AIDS research - First major celebrity to embrace AIDS cause when highly stigmatized - Personally visited patients when others feared contagion - Testified before Congress - Changed public perception of HIV/AIDS

Other Causes

• Jewish causes
• Cancer research
• Various charities throughout life

Controversies

Marriage to Eddie Fisher

• Breaking up marriage of Debbie Reynolds and Eddie Fisher
• Became public enemy for a time
• Eventually reconciled with Reynolds

“Cleopatra” Affair

• Extramarital affair with Richard Burton (both married)
• Vatican condemned their behavior
• U.S. Congress discussed barring them from country
• Massive scandal of 1960s

Health Rumors

• Frequent rumors of death during illnesses
• Tabloid exploitation of health problems

Real Estate

Famous Homes

• Bel Air estate - main residence for decades
• Various international properties
• Known for luxurious, eclectic decorating style

Death

Final Years

• Health declined significantly in 2000s
• Congestive heart failure primary issue
• Hospitalized multiple times in final years

Death

• Died: March 23, 2011
• Age: 79
• Location: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles
• Cause: Congestive heart failure

Funeral

• Jewish service
• Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery
• Buried near Richard Burton (per her request, though they were divorced at death)
• Private ceremony

Conclusion

Elizabeth Taylor’s personal life was as dramatic as any of her films. Eight marriages, extraordinary health struggles, addiction and recovery, religious conversion, and groundbreaking philanthropy created a life of remarkable complexity. Her AIDS activism, in particular, stands as her most significant contribution beyond entertainment, saving countless lives and changing public attitudes. Despite—or perhaps because of—her tumultuous personal life, she remained beloved by the public until her death, a testament to her resilience, generosity, and enduring star power.

Elizabeth Taylor - Legacy

Cultural Impact

Beauty and Glamour Icon

Elizabeth Taylor defined Hollywood glamour for generations: - One of the most photographed women in history - Violet eyes and raven hair became beauty ideals - Her look influenced fashion and makeup trends for decades - Remains reference point for classic Hollywood beauty - “White Diamonds” fragrance commercials kept her image current into 1990s

Violet Eyes Legend

Her eyes became the most famous in cinema: - Rare violet/blue color captivated audiences - Insured for $1 million by Lloyd’s of London - Endless fascination and speculation about color - Became template for describing striking eye color

Influence on Cinema

Child Star Success

Taylor established template for successful child-to-adult star transitions: - Seamless evolution from “National Velvet” to adult stardom - Avoided typical child star pitfalls (initially) - Maintained career across seven decades - Model for young actors (though few matched her success)

Actress as Commodity

She transformed how actresses were valued: - First $1 million salary (“Cleopatra”) - First percentage of gross deal - Proved female stars could command top salaries - Established precedent for actress economic power

Epic Cinema

“Cleopatra” (1963) influenced Hollywood: - Most expensive film ever made at time - Nearly bankrupted 20th Century Fox - Changed how studios approached epics - Demonstrated risks of star-driven productions

Major Achievements Summary

Academy Awards

• 2 Wins - Best Actress (“BUtterfield 8,” “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”)
• 5 Nominations total
• 1 Honorary Oscar - Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award
• One of only 12 actors with two competitive Best Actress wins

Other Major Honors

• Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (2000)
• SAG Life Achievement Award (1997)
• Cecil B. DeMille Award (1985)
• AFI Life Achievement Award (1993)
• Presidential Citizens Medal
• Legion of Honour

Humanitarian Legacy

AIDS Activism

Taylor’s most enduring legacy beyond film: - Pioneer celebrity AIDS activist - Co-founded AmFAR (1985) - Founded ETAF (1991) - Raised over $100 million for AIDS research - Changed public perception of HIV/AIDS when highly stigmatized - Personally visited patients when others feared contagion - Influenced countless celebrities to become activists - Saved countless lives through fundraising and awareness

Impact on Disease Stigma

Her work helped: - Destigmatize HIV/AIDS - Increase research funding - Change public health policies - Encourage testing and treatment - Support for affected communities

Film Legacy

Defining Performances

Films that ensure her cinematic immortality: - “National Velvet” (1944) - Beloved childhood classic - “A Place in the Sun” (1951) - Romantic tragedy perfection - “Giant” (1956) - Epic ensemble achievement - “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” (1958) - Tennessee Williams mastery - “Suddenly, Last Summer” (1959) - Psychological intensity - “BUtterfield 8” (1960) - Oscar-winning drama - “Cleopatra” (1963) - Infamous but iconic - “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” (1966) - Acting masterclass

Acting Influence

Her performances influenced: - Approach to Tennessee Williams material - Portrayal of complex, difficult women - Mix of glamour and raw emotion - Longevity in film careers

Rankings and Recognition

AFI Recognition

• #7 on AFI’s 50 Greatest Screen Legends (female)
• Multiple films in National Film Registry
• “National Velvet,” “Giant,” “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” preserved

Critical Consensus

Regularly ranked among: - Greatest actresses of all time - Most beautiful women in film history - Greatest screen presences - Most influential celebrities

Business Legacy

Fragrance Empire

Created template for celebrity fragrances: - “Passion” (1987) - First successful launch - “White Diamonds” - Billion-dollar brand - First celebrity fragrance line to achieve massive commercial success - Model for countless celebrity perfume lines that followed

Jewelry Legacy

Her collection: - One of history’s most famous jewelry collections - Taylor-Burton Diamond and Krupp Diamond legendary - Christie’s auction raised $156.8 million for ETAF - Set records for jewelry auctions

Richard Burton Relationship

Cultural Phenomenon

Their relationship became larger than their films: - Most famous celebrity romance of 1960s - Scandal, passion, and tragedy - Eleven films together - Two marriages - Inspired countless articles, books, and documentaries - Symbol of destructive love

Lasting Influence

For Actresses

Demonstrated that actresses could: - Command highest salaries - Survive personal scandal and thrive professionally - Transition from child star to respected adult actress - Maintain relevance across decades - Combine commercial success with artistic credibility

For Celebrities

Established model for: - Using fame for philanthropy - Public recovery from addiction - Business ventures beyond entertainment - Maintaining mystique while being accessible

For AIDS Activism

Pioneered: - Celebrity involvement in health crises - Direct fundraising for research - Personal connection to cause - Changing public attitudes through star power

Criticism and Complications

Uneven Filmography

Critics note: - Many mediocre films between masterpieces - Sometimes prioritized paycheck over quality - Personal life occasionally overshadowed work - Later career largely disappointing

Personal Life Scrutiny

• Eight marriages became punchline
• Health issues exploited by tabloids
• Addiction struggles public
• Some felt she courted publicity too much

Death and Posthumous Legacy

Death Impact

Her 2011 death: - Worldwide media coverage - Tributes from entertainment and political figures - Recognition of AIDS activism alongside acting - Reassessment of her cultural importance

Continuing Legacy

Since her death: - Fragrance line continues successfully - ETAF continues fundraising - Films remain widely viewed - Biographies and documentaries continue - Fashion and beauty inspiration ongoing

Conclusion

Elizabeth Taylor’s legacy encompasses: - Extraordinary acting career (2 Oscars, 5 nominations) - Groundbreaking humanitarian work (AIDS activism) - Business innovation (fragrance empire) - Cultural icon status (beauty, glamour, marriages) - Pioneer for actress power in Hollywood

She represents both the heights of Old Hollywood glamour and the evolution toward modern celebrity activism. Her AIDS work alone would ensure her historical significance, but combined with her cinematic achievements, business success, and cultural impact, Elizabeth Taylor stands as one of the most significant figures in entertainment history. From “National Velvet” to AIDS activist, her life spanned extraordinary changes in American culture, and she influenced them all.

Dame Elizabeth Taylor’s legacy proves that movie stars can be more than entertainment—they can change the world.