Written by Margery Bare
Modified & Updated: 09 May 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
Elizabeth Taylor, also known as one of the legendary Hollywood stars, captivated audiences not only with her mesmerizing beauty and talent but also with her vibrant and charismatic personality. With a career spanning over six decades, she left an indelible mark on the film industry and became an icon of style and grace.
Born on February 27, 1932, in London, England, Taylor started her acting career at a young age and quickly rose to fame. She was not just a talented actress but also a strong advocate for various causes, including AIDS research and awareness.
In this article, we will delve into 44 intriguing facts about Elizabeth Taylor, from her illustrious filmography to her personal life and philanthropic endeavors. Get ready to uncover some fascinating details about the life of this extraordinary woman who forever holds a special place in the hearts of her fans worldwide.
Key Takeaways:
- Elizabeth Taylor, the iconic actress, won two Oscars and was known for her striking violet eyes. She was also a passionate advocate for AIDS research and LGBTQ+ rights.
- With seven marriages and a love for diamonds, Elizabeth Taylor’s legacy as a Hollywood legend and philanthropist continues to inspire generations worldwide.
Child Star
Elizabeth Taylor began her acting career at the young age of 10, starring in the film “There’s One Born Every Minute”.
Violet Eyes
Elizabeth Taylor was famous for her striking violet-colored eyes, which were actually a rare genetic mutation known as “distichiasis”.
Early Marriages
By the age of 18, Elizabeth Taylor had already been married twice, first to hotel heir Conrad Hilton Jr. and then to British actor Michael Wilding.
Cleopatra
Elizabeth Taylor’s portrayal of Cleopatra in the 1963 epic film of the same name became one of her most iconic roles.
Oscars
Elizabeth Taylor won two Academy Awards for Best Actress, for her performances in “Butterfield 8” (1960) and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” (1966).
Philanthropy
Throughout her life, Elizabeth Taylor was actively involved in various charitable causes, particularly raising awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS research.
Jewelry Collection
Elizabeth Taylor had an extensive collection of jewelry, including the famous Taylor-Burton diamond, a 69.42-carat pear-shaped diamond given to her by Richard Burton.
Perfume Empire
Elizabeth Taylor launched her own successful line of fragrances, starting with the iconic “White Diamonds” perfume in 1991.
Health Issues
Elizabeth Taylor battled numerous health issues throughout her life, including scoliosis, addiction struggles, and multiple instances of pneumonia.
Close Friendship with Michael Jackson
Elizabeth Taylor and Michael Jackson had a deep and enduring friendship, often referring to each other as “close friends and soulmates.
Activism against AIDS
Elizabeth Taylor became an outspoken advocate and activist in the fight against AIDS, co-founding the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR).
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Elizabeth Taylor received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960, recognizing her contributions to the entertainment industry.
Seven Husbands
Elizabeth Taylor was famously married a total of seven times throughout her life, with Richard Burton being her most notable and volatile marriage.
Best Friends with Debbie Reynolds
Despite an initial rocky start due to Elizabeth Taylor’s relationship with Eddie Fisher, she and Debbie Reynolds ultimately became close friends later in life.
National Velvet
Elizabeth Taylor gained widespread recognition for her role as Velvet Brown in the 1944 film “National Velvet”, solidifying her as a child star.
Father’s Art Gallery
Elizabeth Taylor’s father, Francis Taylor, owned an art gallery, which sparked her early interest in the arts and acting.
Legendary Beauty
Elizabeth Taylor was often regarded as one of the most beautiful women in the world, known for her captivating looks and unique sense of style.
Eye Color Controversy
There has been ongoing debate and speculation regarding the true color of Elizabeth Taylor’s eyes, as they appeared to change shades depending on lighting and camera filters.
Friendship with Montgomery Clift
Elizabeth Taylor and Montgomery Clift shared a close friendship, forming a bond on the set of their film “A Place in the Sun” (1951).
Golden Globe Awards
Elizabeth Taylor received five Golden Globe Awards throughout her career, recognizing her exceptional performances on both the big and small screens.
Taming of the Shrew
Elizabeth Taylor starred alongside Richard Burton in the 1967 film adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew”.
Scandalous Love Affairs
Elizabeth Taylor’s romantic relationships often made headlines, with her highly publicized affairs and marriages captivating the tabloids for decades.
Wedding Tiaras
Elizabeth Taylor had an affinity for lavish weddings, and she famously wore a different jeweled tiara for each of her nuptials.
International Recognition
Elizabeth Taylor’s fame extended worldwide, making her a beloved and respected figure in the global entertainment industry.
Taylor-Burton Romance
Elizabeth Taylor’s passionate romance with Richard Burton sparked intense media attention, as they were often referred to as a volatile and scandalous couple.
Double Set of Eyelashes
Elizabeth Taylor was blessed with a double set of eyelashes, contributing to her unique and captivating beauty.
Baby Names
Elizabeth Taylor’s love for unique and exotic baby names is evident in her children’s names: Michael, Christopher, Liza, and Maria.
Highest-Paid Actress
Elizabeth Taylor set a record as the highest-paid actress of her time when she received $1 million for her role in “Cleopatra”.
Strong Connection to Israel
Elizabeth Taylor had a deep connection to Israel and was awarded the Israel Peace Medal for her dedication to fostering peace and understanding.
Controversial Romance with Eddie Fisher
Elizabeth Taylor’s relationship with Eddie Fisher was highly controversial, as he left his wife Debbie Reynolds to marry Taylor shortly after the death of her third husband, Mike Todd.
Passion for Diamonds
Elizabeth Taylor had an immense passion for diamonds and was often seen wearing extravagant diamond jewelry, solidifying her status as a symbol of luxury.
Book Author
Elizabeth Taylor authored multiple books, including her autobiography “Elizabeth Taylor: My Love Affair with Jewelry”, showcasing her love for exquisite gems.
Lifelong Friendship with James Dean
Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean formed a close friendship while working together on the film “Giant” (1956), with Taylor referring to Dean as the brother she never had.
Activism for LGBTQ+ Rights
Elizabeth Taylor was an early advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using her platform to fight against discrimination and raise awareness about the AIDS epidemic.
Guinness World Record
Elizabeth Taylor holds a Guinness World Record for selling her collection of jewelry at auction for a staggering $137 million.
Business Ventures
Elizabeth Taylor ventured into various business endeavors, including opening a successful perfume company and launching her own line of skincare products.
Beauty Icon
Elizabeth Taylor’s timeless beauty and iconic fashion sense continue to inspire and influence generations of women across the globe.
Art Collector
Elizabeth Taylor had a discerning eye for art and cultivated an impressive collection of valuable paintings and sculptures.
Lasting Legacy
Elizabeth Taylor’s impact on the entertainment industry and global philanthropy continues to be revered, cementing her as a true legend.
Health Advocacy
Elizabeth Taylor utilized her own health struggles to advocate for medical research and support for those living with chronic illnesses.
Social Activism
Elizabeth Taylor actively participated in civil rights movements and advocated for equality, using her platform to amplify marginalized voices.
Friendship with Rock Hudson
Elizabeth Taylor shared a close friendship with Rock Hudson, providing emotional support as he battled against HIV/AIDS before his untimely death.
Award-Winning Performances
Elizabeth Taylor’s incredible talent and dedication to her craft earned her numerous accolades, solidifying her status as a true acting powerhouse.
Enduring Icon
Elizabeth Taylor’s enduring popularity and influence as an actress and humanitarian make her a true icon whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
Conclusion
Elizabeth Taylor was undoubtedly an iconic and multifaceted figure in the world of entertainment. Her remarkable career spanned decades, during which she captivated audiences with her exceptional talent and beauty. Beyond her fame as an actress, Taylor also made headlines for her philanthropic efforts and personal life.From her Academy Award-winning performances to her tireless advocacy for HIV/AIDS awareness, Elizabeth Taylor leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with people today. Her impact on the film industry and her commitment to humanitarian causes will forever be remembered.In this article, we have explored 44 fascinating facts about Elizabeth Taylor, shedding light on both her professional achievements and personal triumphs. From her iconic jewelry collection to her diverse filmography, these facts showcase the depth and complexity of her life.Elizabeth Taylor will forever be remembered as an iconic presence in Hollywood history, and her contributions to the world will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
FAQs
1. What is Elizabeth Taylor best known for?
Elizabeth Taylor is best known for her illustrious career as an actress, with standout performances in movies such as “Cleopatra” and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”. She won two Academy Awards for Best Actress in a Leading Role.
2. How many times was Elizabeth Taylor married?
Elizabeth Taylor was married a total of eight times to seven different men, including film stars Richard Burton and Eddie Fisher.
3. Did Elizabeth Taylor have any children?
Yes, Elizabeth Taylor had four children: Michael Wilding, Christopher Wilding, Liza Todd, and Maria Burton.
4. Was Elizabeth Taylor involved in any philanthropic work?
Yes, Elizabeth Taylor was a dedicated philanthropist and an activist in the fight against HIV/AIDS. She co-founded the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) and established the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.
5. Did Elizabeth Taylor have a signature fragrance?
Yes, Elizabeth Taylor launched her own line of fragrances, including the popular fragrance “White Diamonds”, which became one of the best-selling celebrity perfumes of all time.
6. What was Elizabeth Taylor’s net worth?
At the time of her death in 2011, Elizabeth Taylor’s net worth was estimated to be around $600 million.
7. How many films did Elizabeth Taylor star in?
Elizabeth Taylor starred in over 50 films throughout her career.
8. Did Elizabeth Taylor have any famous friendships?
Yes, Elizabeth Taylor had many famous friendships, including her close bond with Michael Jackson and her lifelong friendship with actor Roddy McDowall.
9. What awards did Elizabeth Taylor receive?
Elizabeth Taylor received numerous awards throughout her career, including four Golden Globe Awards, a BAFTA Award, and a Cecil B. DeMille Award.
10. Where is Elizabeth Taylor buried?
Elizabeth Taylor is buried in Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California.
Delving into Elizabeth Taylor's life reveals a tapestry of captivating stories, from her iconic roles to personal struggles and triumphs. If you're eager to explore more facets of this legendary actress, consider reading about the intriguing facts surrounding Liz Taylor herself, the scandalous tale behind her Oscar-winning performance in Butterfield 8, or the epic production and lasting impact of her most famous film, Cleopatra. Each article promises a unique glimpse into the world of one of Hollywood's most enduring stars.
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