When you think of Elizabeth Taylor, you might picture her dazzling performances on the big screen or her whirlwind romances. But there’s so much more to this Hollywood legend than her acting career or love life. Elizabeth cherished her role as a mother and left behind a legacy of family and activism that continues to inspire. Let’s dive into the details: how many children did Elizabeth Taylor have, who were the fathers, and what did she say about motherhood?
How Many Children Did Elizabeth Taylor Have?
Elizabeth Taylor was a proud mother to four children, each bringing unique joy and challenges into her life. Her first child, son Michael Wilding Jr., was born in January 1953 during her marriage to her second husband, Michael Wilding. Just two years later, in February 1955, Elizabeth gave birth to their second son, Christopher Edward Wilding. These early years of motherhood were filled with excitement and growth for the young family.
Elizabeth’s journey as a mother continued when she married her third husband, Mike Todd, in 1957. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Liza Todd, in August of that year. Tragically, Mike Todd’s life was cut short in 1958 when he died in a plane crash, leaving Elizabeth to raise Liza as a single parent. Despite this heartbreak, Elizabeth remained committed to her role as a mother.
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In 1964, Elizabeth expanded her family once more when she and her fourth husband, Richard Burton, adopted a German orphan named Maria Burton. Although the adoption process had started before their marriage, Richard became an important part of Maria’s life. Elizabeth’s love for her children was unwavering, and she often kept them out of the public eye to protect their privacy.
Did Elizabeth Taylor Have Grandchildren?
As Elizabeth’s children grew up, they started families of their own, adding a new chapter to the Taylor family tree. Elizabeth became a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren, each with their own story:
Michael Wilding Jr. and his first wife, Johanna Lykke-Dahn, welcomed two daughters: Laela Wilding in 1971 and Naomi deLuce Wilding in 1976. Later, Michael Jr. and his second wife, Brooke Palance, had a son, Tarquin Wilding, in 1989.
Christopher Edward Wilding also became a father. With his wife, Aileen Getty, he had two sons: Caleb Wilding in 1983 and Andrew Wilding in 1984. After their divorce, Christopher and Margaret Carlton welcomed another son, Lowell Wilding, in 1991.
Liza Todd followed in her mother’s footsteps, becoming a mother to two sons: Quinn Tivey in 1986 and Rhys Tivey in 1991, both with her partner, Hap Tivey.
Maria Burton completed the family circle with two children of her own: daughter Elizabeth Carson and son Richard McKeown. Elizabeth Carson has carried on her grandmother’s legacy by working as a social worker in New York City and serving as an ambassador for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. Meanwhile, Richard McKeown keeps a low profile, respecting the family’s tradition of privacy.
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What Did Elizabeth Taylor Say About Motherhood?
While Elizabeth Taylor was one of the most celebrated figures in Hollywood, her role as a mother often went unnoticed by the public. Author William J. Mann, who penned the biography How to Be a Movie Star: Elizabeth Taylor in Hollywood, offered insight into why this might be. “We don’t tend to think of mothers as glamorous,” Mann explained. “Elizabeth was a globetrotting beauty who chose to keep her children out of the spotlight. She wasn’t one to push them onto TV shows or use them for media attention.”
Elizabeth’s approach to parenting was rooted in love and protection. She prioritized her children’s well-being over fame, ensuring they grew up in a nurturing environment. Her grandchildren have spoken fondly of her influence, especially her commitment to activism. “My grandmother used her fame to raise awareness for causes that mattered,” said Elizabeth Carson. “She inspired me to pursue a career in child protection and advocate for advancements in HIV prevention.”
Elizabeth Taylor’s impact extends far beyond her acting career. Through her dedication to her family and her advocacy work, she set an example for future generations. Her grandchildren carry on her legacy, proving that a life of love and purpose can leave a lasting impression.
