Elizabeth Taylor
Full Name and Common Aliases
Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor, often referred to as Liz Taylor, was a legendary figure in the world of cinema and beyond. Known for her striking beauty, exceptional acting talent, and tumultuous personal life, she became one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century.
Birth and Death Dates
Elizabeth Taylor was born on February 27, 1932, in Hampstead, London, England. She passed away on March 23, 2011, in Los Angeles, California, USA, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Elizabeth Taylor held dual nationality as both a British and American citizen. She was primarily known as an actress, but her influence extended into the realms of philanthropy and business. Her career spanned over six decades, during which she became a symbol of Hollywood glamour and resilience.
Early Life and Background
Elizabeth Taylor was born to American parents residing in England. Her father, Francis Lenn Taylor, was an art dealer, and her mother, Sara Sothern, was a former stage actress. The family moved to Los Angeles in 1939, just before the outbreak of World War II. Taylor's early exposure to the arts and her mother's encouragement led her to pursue acting at a young age. She made her screen debut at the age of nine in the film "There's One Born Every Minute" (1942), but it was her role in "National Velvet" (1944) that catapulted her to stardom.
Major Accomplishments
Elizabeth Taylor's career was marked by numerous accolades and achievements. She won two Academy Awards for Best Actress, first for her role in "BUtterfield 8" (1960) and later for "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" (1966). Her performances were celebrated for their depth and intensity, showcasing her ability to portray complex characters with authenticity and emotion. Taylor was also the recipient of several Golden Globe Awards and a BAFTA Award, among other honors.
Notable Works or Actions
Throughout her career, Elizabeth Taylor starred in a series of iconic films that have become classics in cinematic history. Some of her most notable works include "Cleopatra" (1963), where she played the titular role and became the highest-paid actress of her time, "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" (1958), and "Giant" (1956). Beyond her film career, Taylor was a pioneering advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and research. Her efforts in founding the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and her outspoken activism helped to destigmatize the disease and raise millions for research and support.
Impact and Legacy
Elizabeth Taylor's impact on the entertainment industry and society at large is profound. She was a trailblazer for women in Hollywood, negotiating unprecedented salaries and demanding creative control over her projects. Her personal life, marked by eight marriages and numerous publicized romances, kept her in the public eye and contributed to her status as a cultural icon. Taylor's philanthropic work, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS, has left a lasting legacy that continues to benefit countless individuals worldwide.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Elizabeth Taylor is widely quoted and remembered for her wit, wisdom, and unapologetic approach to life. Her quotes often reflect her resilience, humor, and passion for living life on her own terms. She once famously said, "I feel very adventurous. There are so many doors to be opened, and I'm not afraid to look behind them." This spirit of adventure and fearlessness resonates with many, making her words timeless and inspirational. Taylor's life and career serve as a testament to her enduring influence, both as a cinematic legend and a humanitarian.
Quotes by Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor's insights on:
The beauty of fragrance is that it speaks to your heart and hopefully someone else’s
Richard doesn't like to give presents when you're supposed to give presents. Christmas and birthdays go right by. But when he goes out and buys something, say, because it's a Tuesday, he's terrible excited.
You can’t cry on a diamond’s shoulder, and diamonds won’t keep you warm at night, but they are sure fun when the sun shines.
You can be fat and still be sexy . It all depends on how you feel about yourself.
I just loved the feeling of flying. I could jump six feet bareback and it was the closest thing to being Pegasus and flying next to God. It’s the most liberating freedom-making feeling in the world.
If someone’s dumb enough to offer me a million dollars to make a picture, I’m certainly not dumb enough to turn it down.
On Mother’s Day: It’s just a rip-off, to tell the truth, a chance to sell my perfume and other things that ladies like.