093 American Royalty (Elizabeth Taylor)

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Who was Elizabeth Taylor?

Elizabeth Taylor (February 27, 1932 – March 23, 2011) was a legendary actress, businesswoman, and humanitarian, celebrated as one of Hollywood's most iconic stars. Born in London, England, to American parents, Taylor moved to Los Angeles as a child and quickly rose to fame as a child actress. Her breakout role came in National Velvet (1944), solidifying her as a young talent to watch.

In her teenage and adult years, Taylor transitioned to more mature roles, earning acclaim for her performances in films like A Place in the Sun (1951), Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966), for which she won her second Academy Award for Best Actress. Her portrayal of Cleopatra in the 1963 epic Cleopatra made her the highest-paid actress of her time and one of Hollywood's most enduring icons.

Beyond her film career, Taylor was renowned for her tumultuous personal life, which included eight marriages, two of which were to actor Richard Burton. Despite media scrutiny, she used her fame to champion important causes. Taylor was a pioneer in AIDS activism, founding the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and raising millions to support HIV/AIDS research and education.

Known for her violet eyes, glamorous presence, and extraordinary talent, Elizabeth Taylor was a trailblazer in both entertainment and philanthropy. She passed away at the age of 79 due to heart failure but remains a symbol of beauty, resilience, and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood and the world.