Elizabeth Taylor, American-British actress, socialite and humanitarian (b. 1932)

The legendary Dame Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor, a British-American actress whose captivating presence defined an era, graced both the silver screen and the public imagination for over seven decades. Born on February 27, 1932, and passing on March 23, 2011, she began her journey as a child actress in the early 1940s, swiftly ascending to become one of the most beloved stars of classical Hollywood cinema by the 1950s. Her unparalleled magnetism saw her transform into the highest-paid movie star of the 1960s, maintaining her status as a global public figure until her final days. In a testament to her enduring legacy, the American Film Institute honored her in 1999, naming her the seventh-greatest female screen legend of Classic Hollywood cinema.

Born in London to affluent American parents, the Taylors moved back to Los Angeles in 1939, just as the rumblings of war began across Europe. This relocation set the stage for young Elizabeth's unexpected foray into Hollywood. Her initial acting debut was a minor role in Universal Pictures' There's One Born Every Minute (1942), but her time with the studio was brief, her contract ending after only a year. However, destiny, or perhaps sheer talent, intervened. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) quickly signed her, and she blossomed into a popular teen star following her memorable performance in the heartwarming classic, National Velvet (1944). As the 1950s dawned, she seamlessly transitioned into more mature roles, charming audiences in the beloved comedy Father of the Bride (1950) and earning significant critical acclaim for her powerful dramatic turn in A Place in the Sun (1951).

Navigating Hollywood: From Studio Control to Stardom

Despite her undeniable appeal and status as one of MGM's most bankable stars, the early 1950s found Taylor contemplating an early retirement from her acting career. She often felt stifled by the rigid control studios exerted over their stars during that era, and many of the film assignments she received failed to ignite her passion. However, a shift occurred in the mid-1950s, bringing more creatively fulfilling opportunities. Her roles began to resonate more deeply, starting with the sprawling epic drama Giant (1956), a film that marked a turning point.

The years that followed cemented her reputation as a formidable dramatic actress. She starred in a string of critically and commercially successful films, showcasing her versatility and intensity. Among these were two iconic adaptations of Tennessee Williams' plays: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), where her portrayal of Maggie "the Cat" was sizzling, and Suddenly, Last Summer (1959). Her powerful performance in the latter earned her a Golden Globe for Best Actress, affirming her profound talent. Even a role she famously disliked—that of a call girl in BUtterfield 8 (1960), her final film under her long-standing MGM contract—ultimately brought her the industry's highest honor: her first Academy Award for Best Actress.

"Liz & Dick": A Public Romance and Unforgettable Collaborations

The early 1960s brought not only a colossal film production but also one of Hollywood's most scandalous and enduring romances. During the making of Cleopatra in 1961, a film notorious for its extravagant budget and production woes, Elizabeth Taylor embarked on an extramarital affair with her co-star, Richard Burton. This highly publicized relationship captivated and scandalized the world, becoming fodder for countless headlines.

Despite considerable public disapproval and intense media scrutiny, their fiery romance continued, culminating in their first marriage in 1964. Dubbed "Liz and Dick" by the press, their tumultuous relationship unfolded both on and off screen. They went on to star in an impressive eleven films together, a testament to their powerful on-screen chemistry, even if some ventures were more successful than others. Notable collaborations included The V.I.P.s (1963), The Sandpiper (1965), and the acclaimed adaptation of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew (1967).

However, it was their raw and searing performances in Mike Nichols' adaptation of Edward Albee's stage play, Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966), that delivered the defining artistic triumph of their partnership. Taylor received the best reviews of her entire career for her portrayal of the bitter, complex Martha, securing her second Academy Award for Best Actress, alongside numerous other accolades. Their passionate, often volatile, union eventually led to divorce in 1974, only for the couple to reconcile and remarry in 1975. Alas, their second marriage was also short-lived, ending in divorce in 1976.

Beyond the Silver Screen: Philanthropy and Enduring Legacy

As the late 1960s drew to a close, Elizabeth Taylor's prominent acting career began a gradual decline, though she continued to grace films until the mid-1970s. Following this period, she shifted her focus, largely dedicating her time to supporting the political career of her sixth husband, United States Senator John Warner (R-Virginia).

The 1980s saw Taylor exploring new artistic avenues, taking on her first substantial stage roles and appearing in several television films and series, proving her versatility beyond the big screen. Demonstrating her business acumen and influence, she became only the second celebrity, following Sophia Loren, to launch her own successful perfume brand, a pioneering move in the celebrity endorsement landscape.

However, it was her unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes that truly defined her later life. Taylor emerged as one of the first celebrities to boldly engage in HIV/AIDS activism, a period when the disease was still shrouded in fear and misinformation. Her efforts were monumental: she co-founded the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) in 1985 and established the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF) in 1991. From the early 1990s until her passing, she devoted an extraordinary amount of her time and resources to philanthropy, for which she received numerous prestigious accolades, including the Presidential Citizens Medal, recognizing her profound impact on global health and advocacy.

A Life Under the Spotlight: Personal Journeys and Final Years

Throughout her extraordinary career, Elizabeth Taylor's vibrant and often tumultuous personal life remained a constant subject of intense media attention, arguably as famous as her films themselves. She married eight times to seven different men, a series of unions that fueled endless public fascination. She also embraced a profound personal journey, converting to Judaism, a decision made with deep conviction.

Beyond the public eye, Taylor bravely navigated several serious illnesses, demonstrating remarkable resilience. Her "jet set" lifestyle was legendary, characterized by glamour, travel, and a passion for exquisite jewels, leading her to amass one of the world's most expensive private collections. After many years of battling various health issues, Elizabeth Taylor passed away from congestive heart failure in 2011, at the age of 79. She left behind an indelible legacy as an actress, a philanthropist, and an enduring symbol of Hollywood royalty, forever etched in the annals of cinema history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Elizabeth Taylor

Who was Elizabeth Taylor?

Elizabeth Taylor was a celebrated British-American actress and humanitarian, widely considered one of the greatest stars of classical Hollywood cinema. She was famous for her stunning beauty, intense acting performances, and captivating personal life.

When and where was Elizabeth Taylor born?

Elizabeth Taylor was born on February 27, 1932, in London, England.

When did Elizabeth Taylor make her acting debut?

She made her acting debut with a minor role in the film There's One Born Every Minute in 1942.

What films is Elizabeth Taylor most famous for?

Some of her most iconic films include National Velvet (1944), Father of the Bride (1950), A Place in the Sun (1951), Giant (1956), Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), Suddenly, Last Summer (1959), BUtterfield 8 (1960), Cleopatra (1963), and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966).

How many Academy Awards did Elizabeth Taylor win?

She won two Academy Awards for Best Actress: for BUtterfield 8 (1960) and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966).

What was Elizabeth Taylor known for besides acting?

Beyond her prolific acting career, Elizabeth Taylor was a prominent humanitarian, particularly known for her pioneering activism in the fight against HIV/AIDS. She co-founded amfAR and established the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF). She was also famous for her eight marriages, her extensive jewelry collection, and her enduring celebrity status.

When did Elizabeth Taylor pass away?

Elizabeth Taylor passed away on March 23, 2011, at the age of 79.