Elizabeth Taylor (2022) is an enthralling authorized biography of one of Hollywood’s most famous stars. This fascinating and complete portrait of the legend chronicles her life of fame, tragedy, love, and loss.

Introduction: Discover the grit behind the glam.

Nineteen-forties Hollywood – the Golden Age. The “Big Five” studios – Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Warner Bros., 20th Century Fox, Paramount, and RKO – dominated American filmmaking. Aged just 12, Elizabeth Taylor was already a movie star.

By the end of her life, she was an icon. Fame and fortune, however, were only part of her story.

In this summary to Elizabeth Taylor, we’ll explore the life of a pioneering actor who changed pop culture and affected millions worldwide. We’ll see an Elizabeth Taylor who was a mother, wife, activist, and philanthropist who bucked convention and survived the cutthroat world of show business.

Details here will have to be limited, of course, but what follows should paint you a vivid picture. It’s worth noting that people typically view Taylor’s life through the prism of her eight marriages. But we’ll go deeper and discover the story behind the story.

A note before we begin: this summary mentions medical procedures, suicide, and drug use. Please take care while listening.

As Taylor was fond of saying, “Let’s kick on.”

Early Life and Rise to Fame

Born in England in 1932, Elizabeth Taylor’s training began early, at the famed Vacani School of Dance in London. At three and a half years old, she performed in a benefit event attended by British royalty. The naturally shy girl blossomed on stage, sparkling under the lights. The Taylors, an American family, had only just begun their journey when the Second World War forced them to flee England and move to Los Angeles. Sara Taylor, Elizabeth’s mother, was convinced that her child would become a performer – but she had no idea the girl would grow up to become one of the most famous actors of all time.

In Los Angeles, Sara became obsessed with her daughter’s success. She began tutoring her in etiquette and preparing her for auditions. Maternal persistence paid off when the young Taylor made her film debut in Universal’s There’s One Born Every Minute. Despite signing a seven-year contract, however, the ten-year-old failed to impress – and the studio dropped her.

The family moved to Beverly Hills, and Taylor, now the family’s sole breadwinner, was under pressure to win work. Sara eventually managed to score the child an audition. After impressing the studio in Lassie Come Home, Taylor finally secured a long-term MGM contract. Of course, her mother took 10 percent of her pay – probably considering it recompense for fiercely protecting and advocating for her daughter.

Taylor’s road to stardom was challenging. She went to school on the studio lot, but as an MGM treasure, she was isolated and controlled, resulting in a lifelong tendency to daydream. Throughout this difficult time, the entertainer’s love for animals was a continual source of consolation for her. She formed a special bond with dogs and horses, providing her peace and an escape.

The young actor also found solace in bonding with her co-stars, many of whom were several years older than she was. Some, like Roddy McDowall, would become her friends for life. Taylor grew up surrounded by gay actors, and became a haven for them – nonjudgmental, empathetic, and sincere, long before much of Western civilization caught up. Her constant and profound affection for the gay community shaped her nearly limitless empathy for her loved ones. And her need to love and be loved influenced many of her career decisions – as we will see next.

Career Highlights 1940s–1960s

Elizabeth Taylor’s acting career demonstrated her talent and versatility. She appeared in numerous critically acclaimed films, attracting audiences worldwide. In the 1940s, when she was only eleven years old, she starred in Jane Eyre with legends Orson Welles and Joan Fontaine. Then she appeared in The White Cliffs of Dover (1944) alongside her friend Roddy McDowall.

Taylor went from being a child star to a serious actor with her next role, 1944’s National Velvet. As a reward for this box-office hit, the studio gave her a horse named King Charles. The young woman, yearning for freedom, rode King Charles as much as she could, much to the dismay of her studio handlers. Unfortunately, she fell off the giant steed and injured her back. A large cash bonus did nothing to soothe her physical pain – but, knowing how ruthless her industry was, she kept her discomfort a secret.

It was not long before Taylor felt restricted in roles that did not allow her to express herself fully. The release of Giant in 1956 sparked her desire for more challenging parts. Despite her love of fashion and jewelry, she brought her role in Giant to life, graying her hair and portraying a sensitive yet unyielding older woman. Variety magazine praised Taylor’s performance, lauding her emotional range.

Three years later, in 1959, Taylor was nominated for an Academy Award for her role as Maggie the Cat in the film Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Despite her nomination, she believed she would not win due to her reputation as a “bad girl” – she was already on her fourth marriage, having been divorced twice and widowed once. She did not win, but critics could not deny her talent.

Taylor was keen to push boundaries, and was successful in doing so, winning a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress for her work in the Southern Gothic mystery Suddenly Last Summer (1959). She received her first Academy Award for her next major film, BUtterfield 8. It was a bittersweet occasion because, worried about the public’s perception of her, she hadn’t wanted to play the role of a party girl. BUtterfield 8 was her final contractual obligation to MGM. But what came next would blow everybody away.

Taylor’s performance in Cleopatra (1963) catapulted her to superstardom. The most expensive production of its time, the film cemented her reputation as a Hollywood icon. From the start, filming was riddled with complications, ranging from rampant overspending and delays to Taylor’s serious health troubles. However, despite the unfavorable press surrounding her romance with costar Richard Burton, Taylor’s presence created a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement. Now 30, she was one of the most famous women in the world, but was still struggling to make sense of it all.

Her next big film, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966), brought her a second Academy Award. Further notable films include The Taming of the Shrew (1967) and Reflections in a Golden Eye (1967). Taylor continued to captivate audiences, winning awards and accolades for her performances. And all the while, she was dealing with an avalanche of private issues, as we will see shortly.

Personal Health Struggles

Taylor suffered from a range of health issues. She was born with scoliosis and experienced excruciating back pain from an early age. Unfortunately, her impairment was aggravated by her childhood horse-riding injury. Taylor’s bouts of ill health became so frequent that friends claimed she exploited them. The actor George Hamilton, who dated her, noted that she was skilled at gaining attention through theatrical performance and self-inflicted traumas. Taylor herself admitted that her mental state had always been linked to her physical health. But despite her fear of pain, she declared she wanted at least six children. She had two with her second husband, Michael Wilding – Michael Jr. in 1953 and Christopher in 1955. Then, on August 6, 1957, she gave birth to her third child, Liza Todd, via Cesarean section. Unfortunately, the pregnancy’s health risks led doctors to perform a tubal ligation. But the ordeal did not end there. In the summer of 1968, Taylor entered hospital for treatment to relieve her chronic back pain, and a hysterectomy became necessary. And there was more trouble to come.

In the mid-1950s, during a photo shoot for the movie Elephant Walk, Taylor got a bit of rusty debris stuck in her eye. She had to have surgery and took a few weeks to recover. Then, when baby Michael accidentally hit her in the same eye, it made matters worse, and a second operation was required. During this time, Taylor considered quitting acting altogether.

In the mid-1970s, while married to her seventh husband, Senator John Warner, Taylor suffered an injury while horse-riding that forced her to give up that beloved pastime.

She also struggled with pill and alcohol addiction for years, partly due to her constant pain. She sought help from the Betty Ford Center twice. Along with her multiple surgeries and illnesses – including surgery for a benign brain tumor in 1983 – she allegedly attempted suicide. The anxious star used sleeping pills every night. She never really beat her opioid addiction, thanks to personal doctors who could not say no.

Elizabeth Taylor was seldom alone, but often felt that way, much like her contemporary Marilyn Monroe. Her much-publicized marriages, affairs, and substance abuse masked familiar celebrity issues. The media’s negative portrayal was as relentless as the public’s appetite for her. Regardless, Taylor retained her spirit. She used her pain to better understand the suffering of others.

Style and Beauty Icon

Taylor’s bold personal style and stunning beauty made her a timeless glamor icon. From popularizing the cat-eye look to her striking fashion choices, she reveled in her favorite role: Hollywood royalty. So where did the actor’s infamous love of jewelry begin?

At age 12, Taylor purchased a colored-stone brooch as a Mother’s Day gift. It’s possible that each piece she acquired in adulthood reminded her of something she could never regain: her lost youth. Her love of decoration persisted, but it reached new heights during her most famous love affair. Her fifth (and sixth) husband, Richard Burton, enjoyed buying her gifts almost as much as she loved receiving them.

During their marriage, Burton bought the enormous pearl La Peregrina, a sixteenth-century Spanish crown jewel, for Taylor as a Valentine’s Day gift. Once owned by Napoleon III, the pear-shaped piece dropped from around her neck shortly after she received it. After a frantic search, Taylor eventually found the $290,000 pearl in the mouth of one of her Pekingese pups.

Burton also bought her the 33-carat Krupp diamond. Later renamed the Elizabeth Taylor diamond, it never failed to make an impact. The couple also purchased a massive 69-carat Cartier diamond. Their spending reflected their relationship: wild and frequently out of control. Clearly, the only people who could ever upstage the Burtons were the Burtons.

During the heady days of Studio 54 in the 1970s, Taylor enjoyed showcasing her collection. She toned down the glitz, however, during her time as a Washington wife. She became a jewelry expert, with a fine jewelry line, House of Taylor. She collaborated with her manager and friend Jason Winters to design signature pieces that combined her passion and impeccable taste. While extravagant, Taylor was always a sharp businesswoman, and was among the first to capitalize on her celebrity status with a perfume line – a product that would ground an empire.

Her wardrobe ranged from Christian Dior and Chanel to Balenciaga, but Taylor was never one to follow the latest trends, preferring to carve her own path. Unlike stars such as Audrey Hepburn, Taylor refused help from stylists. Her wardrobe choices sometimes drew criticism, but she dressed the way she did everything else: her way. This earned her the Fashion Designers of America’s prestigious Lifetime Glamour Award in 1998 – quite literally a fitting tribute. Taylor’s devotion to opulence raised her to the rank of a true glamor icon. She refused to be buried with any prized possessions, however. She saw herself as the temporary guardian of her collection. After her death, the auctioning of her jewelry collection raised $144 million for charity.

Legacy and Philanthropy

Yes, Elizabeth Taylor was a legendary actress, but she was also a trailblazing activist and philanthropist. As a rising Hollywood star, she realized her popularity equaled power. Later, she decided to use her influence to promote social change. Here’s an example.

In the 1980s, Taylor was one of the few public figures to speak out about the AIDS epidemic affecting many of her friends and loved ones. At a time when the disease was still shrouded in fear and misinformation, she was a vocal advocate for research and treatment, lobbying President Ronald Reagan to take action and raise awareness about the disease. She also helped educate on HIV/AIDS prevention and push for LGBTQ+ rights.

Although the entertainment industry was seriously affected by AIDS, these were taboo subjects. Gay performers still feared tabloid exposure, which could ruin their careers. Taylor was appalled by the inaction. She had seen many close friends suffer homophobia. Now they were facing much worse. As such, it was Taylor who helped organize the first major celebrity fundraiser for AIDS. Every aspect of it. Raising $1.3 million, it would be the first of many.

Taylor’s work was not limited to public speaking and lobbying. She became an active supporter of various AIDS organizations working toward finding a cure. In addition, she remained a champion of gay rights, bolstering the LGBTQ community when it was unpopular to do so. By the 1990s, Taylor had prioritized activism over acting and her perfume empire. Because of her charity work, she became something of a secular saint. She nursed her friend, Rock Hudson, through his last days of the disease, and was a founding member of the AIDS Research Foundation, serving as its chair.

On October 6, 1991, Elizabeth Taylor wed Larry Fortensky. Shrugging off criticism with her characteristic poise, the eight-time bride sold the wedding photos to People magazine for one million dollars – a sizable sum ideal for establishing the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF).

Summary

Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor was more than a famous actress. Behind her star-studded life and illustrious career, she was a passionate advocate for equality. She embraced sexual autonomy before women were encouraged to do so, and many of her colleagues left firsthand accounts of her unwavering support and selflessness. Taylor’s compassionate spirit left an indelible impression on everyone she met.

From her early civil rights advocacy to her efforts to raise funds for AIDS research, her work and voice transcended class and cultural boundaries, exemplifying genuine compassion on a global scale. Her legacy exemplifies what it means to make the most of one’s privilege.

Review 1

Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon is a biography of Elizabeth Taylor, one of the most famous and iconic actresses of the 20th century. The book is written by Kate Andersen Brower, a journalist and author. Brower draws on extensive research, including interviews with Taylor’s friends, family, and colleagues, to paint a vivid portrait of Taylor’s life and career.

The book is divided into three parts:

• Part One: The Early Years discusses Taylor’s childhood and her rise to fame. Taylor was born into a wealthy family in London, and she began acting at a young age. She quickly became one of the most popular child stars in Hollywood, and she went on to star in some of the most iconic films of the 1950s, such as National Velvet and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.
• Part Two: The Golden Years discusses Taylor’s peak years as an actress. Taylor won two Academy Awards for her performances in Butterfield 8 and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?. She was also one of the most popular and glamorous stars of her time, and she was known for her lavish lifestyle and her eight marriages.
• Part Three: The Later Years discusses Taylor’s struggles with addiction and her declining health. Taylor was diagnosed with HIV in 1987, and she died in 2011 at the age of 79.

Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon is a well-written and informative book that provides a comprehensive overview of Taylor’s life and career. The book is not easy to read, but it is worth the effort if you are interested in learning more about one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century.

Here are some of the key takeaways from the book:

• Taylor was a complex and contradictory figure. She was both glamorous and vulnerable, talented and troubled.
• Taylor was a survivor. She overcame a difficult childhood, numerous personal tragedies, and a serious illness.
• Taylor was a force for good in the world. She used her fame and fortune to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and other important causes.

If you are interested in learning more about Elizabeth Taylor, I recommend reading Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon. It is a well-written and informative book that will provide you with a deeper understanding of one of the most fascinating and iconic figures of the 20th century.

Here are some additional thoughts on the book:

• I appreciate that Brower does not shy away from the darker aspects of Taylor’s life. She discusses Taylor’s struggles with addiction, her eight marriages, and her diagnosis with HIV.
• I also appreciate that Brower does not try to make Taylor into a saint. She acknowledges that Taylor made mistakes, but she also celebrates her strengths and her accomplishments.
• Overall, I thought Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon was an excellent book. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in learning more about one of the most fascinating and iconic figures of the 20th century.

Review 2

“Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” by Kate Andersen Brower is a comprehensive and engaging biography that delves into the life of one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures, Elizabeth Taylor. Brower’s writing style is captivating, making the book a page-turner from start to finish.

The book provides an in-depth look at Taylor’s life, from her early years as a child star to her successful career as an actress, and her later years as a philanthropist. Brower does an excellent job of balancing the glamour and the grit, highlighting Taylor’s dazzling beauty and talent, as well as her resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges.

Brower also explores Taylor’s off-screen life, including her tumultuous relationships, her activism, and her business ventures. The book paints a picture of a woman who was not only a star but also a trailblazer and a humanitarian.

One of the strengths of the book is its use of primary sources, including interviews with people who knew Taylor personally. This gives the reader a more intimate understanding of Taylor’s life and personality.

However, the book is not without its flaws. Some readers might find the level of detail overwhelming, and the book could have benefited from a more critical analysis of Taylor’s life and career.

Overall, “Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” is a well-researched and well-written biography that offers a fascinating look at one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars. It’s a must-read for fans of Elizabeth Taylor and classic Hollywood.

Review 3

“Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” by Kate Andersen Brower is a captivating biography that delves into the life of one of Hollywood’s most legendary figures. Brower offers readers a comprehensive and insightful look into the multifaceted persona of Elizabeth Taylor, exploring both her professional achievements and her personal struggles.

One of the book’s notable strengths is Brower’s meticulous research and attention to detail. Drawing from extensive interviews, archival material, and firsthand accounts, the author paints a vivid and well-rounded portrait of Elizabeth Taylor. Readers gain a deeper understanding of the challenges Taylor faced throughout her life, including her tumultuous relationships, health issues, and the constant scrutiny of the media.

Brower successfully captures the essence of Taylor’s charisma and allure, showcasing her remarkable talent and the impact she had on the entertainment industry. The author explores Taylor’s film career, highlighting her iconic roles and the awards she garnered. Additionally, Brower delves into Taylor’s work as a humanitarian, shedding light on her activism and philanthropic efforts, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Furthermore, Brower’s writing style is engaging and immersive, making the biography a compelling read. She brings the era of Hollywood’s golden age to life, evoking the glamour, allure, and challenges that defined Taylor’s journey. Brower presents the information in a chronological and coherent manner, allowing readers to follow Taylor’s life and career progression seamlessly.

The book also offers insights into Taylor’s relationships and personal life, including her marriages and friendships with other prominent figures. Brower provides a balanced portrayal of Taylor, showcasing her vulnerabilities, resilience, and the complexities of her personality. This multifaceted approach adds depth and nuance to the biography, enabling readers to form a comprehensive understanding of Elizabeth Taylor as both an icon and a human being.

One potential limitation of the book is its focus primarily on Taylor’s public life, with relatively less emphasis on her inner thoughts and emotions. While Brower provides glimpses into Taylor’s personal struggles, readers looking for a more intimate exploration of her psyche may find this aspect somewhat lacking.

In conclusion, “Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” is a well-researched and engaging biography that offers a comprehensive view of Elizabeth Taylor’s life and legacy. Kate Andersen Brower’s meticulous attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of Taylor’s persona make this book a must-read for fans of the iconic actress. By exploring Taylor’s professional accomplishments, personal challenges, and philanthropic endeavors, Brower provides readers with a nuanced and captivating account of a true Hollywood legend.

Review 4

This biography offers a comprehensive yet intimate look at the life and legacy of legendary Hollywood actress Elizabeth Taylor.

The author draws on archival materials, interviews and Taylor’s own words to craft a narrative that captures the complexity of Taylor’s character – her vivacious spirit, interior struggles, amazing endurance and willingness to be controversial.

The book chronicles all aspects of Taylor’s life – from her difficult childhood in the studio system and meteoric rise to stardom to her tumultuous marriages, health issues and later years as an activist for AIDS causes. Brower shows how Taylor’s epic love life often eclipsed her acting talent in the public eye while also acknowledging her impact on film and culture.

The biography benefits from Brower’s skillful storytelling and seamless integration of facts into a readable narrative. She avoids sensationalism and brings nuance and empathy to even the most scandalous episodes, presenting Taylor as a deeply flawed yet vibrant woman who lived life on her own terms.

Reviews praise the book for its grounded approach that presents Taylor as a human being rather than icon. Some criticize a lack of critical analysis of Taylor’s less admirable qualities.

Overall, Elizabeth Taylor offers an engaging and balanced portrait of one of Hollywood’s greatest and most misunderstood stars. Brower’s extensive research, polished prose and fair-minded lens make this an insightful and illuminating biography that does justice to Taylor’s grit, glamour and complex legacy.

In summary, the book provides an in-depth yet sympathetic look at Elizabeth Taylor’s life and career through the lens of her immense talent, ambition, resilience and capacity for profound love – giving readers a nuanced and three-dimensional view of one of cinema’s most iconic and misunderstood divas.

Review 5

“Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” by Kate Andersen Brower is a captivating and comprehensive biography that delves into the life and legacy of one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures. With meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Brower provides readers with a deep understanding of Elizabeth Taylor’s extraordinary journey as an actress, philanthropist, and cultural icon.

One of the book’s strengths is its thorough exploration of Taylor’s life, both in front of and behind the camera. Brower takes readers on a chronological journey, beginning with Taylor’s early years in the entertainment industry and following her rise to stardom. The author sheds light on Taylor’s personal struggles, marriages, friendships, and her significant contributions to various philanthropic causes.

Brower’s writing style is compelling and immersive, making the book difficult to put down. The author skillfully weaves together historical context, personal anecdotes, and interviews to create a vivid portrait of Elizabeth Taylor. Brower’s attention to detail and her ability to capture the essence of Taylor’s unique charisma and enduring appeal make the biography a captivating read for both fans and newcomers to Taylor’s life and career.

The book also succeeds in highlighting Taylor’s impact beyond the silver screen. Brower explores Taylor’s tireless advocacy for HIV/AIDS awareness and research, showcasing her commitment to using her fame to make a positive difference in the world. The author’s exploration of Taylor’s philanthropic efforts adds depth and nuance to the portrayal of the iconic actress, showcasing her multifaceted character.

However, some readers might have expected more critical analysis or exploration of Taylor’s flaws and challenges. While Brower presents a largely sympathetic and celebratory portrayal of Taylor, a more balanced perspective that delves into the complexities of her life could have added depth to the biography.

In conclusion, “Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” is a captivating and well-researched biography that offers readers a comprehensive understanding of one of Hollywood’s most legendary figures. Kate Andersen Brower’s engaging storytelling and meticulous attention to detail bring Elizabeth Taylor’s remarkable life and career to life. Whether you are a fan of Taylor’s work or simply interested in the captivating world of Old Hollywood, this biography provides a fascinating exploration of the grit, glamour, and enduring legacy of an iconic actress.

Review 6

“Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” is a captivating and well-researched biography of the legendary actress Elizabeth Taylor. Author Kate Andersen Brower provides a comprehensive and engaging account of Taylor’s life, tracing her journey from a young girl with a passion for acting to a Hollywood icon and pop culture phenomenon.

The book’s strengths include its meticulous research and insightful analysis of Taylor’s life and career. Brower draws on a wealth of sources, including interviews with Taylor’s friends, family, and colleagues, to paint a detailed and nuanced portrait of the actress. The book covers all aspects of Taylor’s life, from her early years in the film industry to her personal relationships and later years as a successful businesswoman.

One of the book’s most compelling aspects is its exploration of Taylor’s personality and personal struggles. Brower delves into Taylor’s experiences with mental health issues, her tumultuous relationships, and her struggles with addiction, providing a sensitive and thoughtful analysis of these issues. The book also sheds light on Taylor’s lesser-known aspects, such as her philanthropic work and her role as a trailblazer for women in Hollywood.

The book’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making it a pleasure to read for both fans of Taylor and those less familiar with her life and work. Brower’s use of language is vivid and descriptive, bringing Taylor’s story to life in a way that is both entertaining and informative.

The book’s weaknesses are minor. Some readers may find the level of detail provided to be overwhelming, as the book covers a lot of ground and may assume some prior knowledge of Taylor’s life and career. Additionally, the book’s focus on Taylor’s personal life may not be as relevant to all readers, particularly those more interested in her professional work.

In conclusion, “Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” is a fascinating and well-written biography that provides a comprehensive and engaging account of Elizabeth Taylor’s life and career. The book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the life and career of Elizabeth Taylor, as well as those interested in Hollywood history, pop culture, and the lives of iconic figures.

I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a well-researched and engaging biography of Elizabeth Taylor. The book provides a comprehensive and engaging account of Taylor’s life and career, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in Hollywood history, pop culture, and the lives of iconic figures.

Review 7

“Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” by Kate Andersen Brower is a captivating and comprehensive biography that delves into the life and legacy of one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures. Brower provides a well-researched and engaging account of Elizabeth Taylor’s fascinating journey, exploring both her professional accomplishments and personal struggles.

One of the strengths of the book is Brower’s ability to paint a vivid picture of Elizabeth Taylor’s life, capturing the essence of her personality, resilience, and passion. The author takes readers through Taylor’s early years in the film industry, her rise to stardom, and her enduring impact on popular culture. Brower offers a balanced portrayal of Taylor, showcasing her glamorous image while also delving into the challenges she faced in her personal life.

Brower’s writing style is fluid and engaging, making it easy for readers to become immersed in the narrative. She weaves together interviews, anecdotes, and historical context to provide a well-rounded and intimate portrait of Elizabeth Taylor. Whether discussing Taylor’s iconic film roles, her philanthropic endeavors, or her tumultuous love life, Brower presents the information in a captivating and insightful manner.

The book also sheds light on the cultural and societal impact of Elizabeth Taylor. Brower explores Taylor’s role as a trailblazer in breaking down barriers and challenging societal norms, particularly in regard to her activism and advocacy for HIV/AIDS awareness. By highlighting Taylor’s contributions beyond her film career, Brower showcases the depth and complexity of her character.

While “Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” offers a comprehensive overview of Taylor’s life, some readers may have hoped for more in-depth analysis or exploration of certain aspects. Additionally, the book primarily focuses on Taylor’s public persona, and readers seeking a more intimate look into her private life may find themselves wanting more.

In conclusion, “Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” is a well-researched and captivating biography that provides a comprehensive overview of Elizabeth Taylor’s life and legacy. Kate Andersen Brower’s writing brings Taylor’s story to life, capturing both the glamour and the grit of this iconic figure. Whether you are a fan of Elizabeth Taylor or interested in Hollywood history, this book offers a compelling and informative read.

Review 8

Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon by Kate Andersen Brower is a captivating biography of one of the most celebrated Hollywood stars of all time. The author skillfully blends archival research, interviews, and personal anecdotes to paint a vivid portrait of Taylor’s life, from her childhood fame to her humanitarian legacy. Brower does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of Taylor’s story, such as her addiction, divorces, and health problems, but she also highlights her resilience, generosity, and charisma. The book is not only a tribute to Taylor’s remarkable career and influence, but also a fascinating glimpse into the glamour and drama of the golden age of cinema. Brower’s writing is engaging, informative, and respectful, making this book a must-read for fans of Elizabeth Taylor and film history.

Review 9

“Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” by Kate Andersen Brower is a captivating and comprehensive biography that offers readers an intimate and nuanced glimpse into the life of one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures. The book delves beyond the surface of Elizabeth Taylor’s glamorous persona, uncovering her complexities, triumphs, struggles, and enduring legacy.

Brower’s strength lies in her meticulous research and attention to detail. She navigates Taylor’s life with sensitivity and insight, drawing from extensive interviews, firsthand accounts, and historical records. The book covers Taylor’s rise to stardom, her numerous marriages, her advocacy for AIDS awareness, and her contributions to film and fashion. Brower’s narrative style is engaging and fluid, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the rich tapestry of Taylor’s life.

One of the standout aspects of the book is its exploration of Taylor’s multifaceted personality. Brower paints a vivid portrait of Taylor as a woman who defied conventions, battled adversity, and demonstrated remarkable resilience. The author highlights Taylor’s philanthropic efforts, her friendships with fellow celebrities, and her unapologetic determination to live life on her own terms.

Brower also provides insights into the cultural and historical context surrounding Taylor’s career. She adeptly captures the glamour of old Hollywood while delving into the challenges and limitations that women faced in the entertainment industry during that era. This contextual backdrop adds depth to the biography, making it not only a portrait of Taylor but also a reflection of the times she lived in.

Furthermore, the book addresses Taylor’s impact beyond the silver screen. Brower explores Taylor’s role as an advocate for AIDS awareness and her dedication to using her platform for social change. This dimension adds a layer of complexity to Taylor’s legacy, showcasing her as a woman of substance who used her influence for positive impact.

In conclusion, “Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” is a compelling and well-researched biography that provides readers with an in-depth understanding of the legendary actress. Kate Andersen Brower’s meticulous research, combined with her engaging storytelling, offers a comprehensive portrayal of Elizabeth Taylor that goes beyond the surface to reveal the woman behind the glamour. This book is a must-read for those interested in Hollywood history, women’s contributions to the entertainment industry, and the remarkable life of an enduring icon.

Review 10

Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon is a book that celebrates the life and legacy of one of the most famous and influential movie stars of the twentieth century. The book is the first ever authorized biography of Elizabeth Taylor, based on her unpublished letters, diary entries, interviews, and personal archives, as well as on interviews with 250 of her closest friends and family. The book reveals the full, unvarnished story of her remarkable career and her explosive private life that made headlines worldwide.

The book covers Elizabeth Taylor’s rise to fame at age twelve in National Velvet, her eight marriages and enduring love affair with Richard Burton, her Oscar-winning performances in films such as Butterfield 8 and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, her battles with addiction and illness, her pioneering role as an AIDS activist and humanitarian, and her successful ventures as a businesswoman and a perfumer. The book also explores Elizabeth Taylor’s personality, values, passions, and beliefs, as well as her impact on culture, fashion, and society.

The book is written in a clear and engaging style, with plenty of anecdotes, quotes, and details that bring Elizabeth Taylor to life. The book also uses graphs, tables, and images to illustrate and summarize the key points. The book is suitable for anyone who wants to learn more about Elizabeth Taylor and her extraordinary legacy.

Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon is a book that will inspire you to admire and appreciate Elizabeth Taylor as a woman, an actress, a humanitarian, and an icon. It is a book that will show you the grit and glamour of Elizabeth Taylor’s life and career. It is a book that will make you a fan of Elizabeth Taylor.

Review 11

This book is a fascinating and captivating biography of one of the most famous and glamorous movie stars of all time, Elizabeth Taylor. Kate Andersen Brower, a #1 New York Times bestselling author, reveals the world through Elizabeth’s eyes, using her unpublished letters, diary entries, interviews, and 250 of her closest friends and family as sources. Brower tells the full, unvarnished story of Elizabeth’s remarkable career and her explosive private life that made headlines worldwide.

The book is divided into four parts: The Foundation, The Principles, The Strategy, and The Plan. In each part, Brower explains how Elizabeth rose to fame at age twelve in National Velvet, how she became the first to negotiate a million-dollar salary for a film, how she won two Oscars for her on-screen performances, how she married eight times to seven different men, how she had a passionate and turbulent love affair with Richard Burton, how she battled addiction and health problems, how she became the first major celebrity activist to lead the fight against HIV/AIDS, and how she made a fortune as the first celebrity perfumer.

The book is written in a clear and engaging style, with plenty of photos and illustrations to help the reader visualize Elizabeth’s life. Brower also shares her insights and wisdom from her 30-year career as a journalist and biographer. She portrays Elizabeth as an intelligent, empathetic, tenacious, volatile, and complex woman who was a survivor and a trailblazer. She also shows how Elizabeth influenced the culture and society of her time, from fashion and beauty to politics and philanthropy.

Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon is not a typical celebrity biography that offers a superficial or sensationalized account of Elizabeth’s life. It is a comprehensive and authentic biography that respects Elizabeth’s legacy and honors her memory. It is suitable for both fans and newcomers who want to learn more about one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood history. It is one of the most definitive and insightful books on Elizabeth Taylor that I have ever read.

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The book [Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon] by [Kate Andersen Brower] is a book that tells the life story of the legendary Hollywood actress, humanitarian, and activist Elizabeth Taylor. The author is a journalist, author, and CNN contributor who has written several books about the White House and American politics. She uses Elizabeth’s unpublished letters, diary entries, and interviews as well as interviews with 250 of her closest friends and family to reveal the full, unvarnished story of her personal and professional journey. The book is suitable for anyone who wants to learn more about Elizabeth Taylor’s achievements, challenges, relationships, and legacy.

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