Elizabeth

More about the book

From the bestselling author of *Once Upon a Time: Behind the Fairy Tale of Princess Grace and Prince Rainer* comes a captivating biography of film legend Elizabeth Taylor, exploring her life beyond the tabloids. For over six decades, Taylor has been an American icon, surrounded by fame since childhood. Acclaimed biographer J. Randy Taraborrelli delves into her evolution from child star to independent woman, presenting a fully realized portrait of her family dynamics. Her mother, a controlling figure, meticulously plotted Elizabeth's success, while her father's complex relationship with her is revealed to be more nuanced than previously understood. Taraborrelli brings to life Elizabeth's rise in 1940s Hollywood, highlighting the qualities that made her a star and the circumstances that shaped her journey. While her eight marriages to seven men are well-documented, this biography examines the psychological and emotional roots of each relationship, including her tumultuous marriage to Nicky Hilton and the passionate, enduring affair with Richard Burton. The author also chronicles Elizabeth's remarkable resilience, showcasing her battles with substance abuse and chronic illness, and her eventual triumphs in family, friendships, and philanthropy. Accompanied by never-before-published family photos, this biography offers a deeper understanding of a woman many thought they knew.