Elizabeth Taylor, the iconic actress known for her beauty and talent, had four children, each of whom chose to lead lives distinct from the Hollywood spotlight that surrounded their mother. Michael Wilding Jr., Christopher Wilding, Liza Todd, and Maria Burton Carson navigated their upbringing under the relentless gaze of fame, ultimately seeking paths of their own.
Michael Wilding Jr., born in 1953, initially ventured into acting but soon turned to stone sculpture, finding solace in the arts. Relocating to Santa Fe, New Mexico, he embraced a quieter life, creating abstract works that reflect his introspective nature. His three children continue to honor their grandmother’s philanthropic legacy through the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.
Christopher Wilding, born in 1955, experienced the chaos of growing up in the media spotlight. Instead of pursuing acting, he carved a niche behind the scenes in the film industry as a sound editor and assistant director. He later took on a formal role preserving his mother’s legacy, serving as a trustee of the Elizabeth Taylor Trust.
Liza Todd, born in 1957, faced profound loss early in life with the death of her father. Choosing to step away from the limelight, she pursued a career as a sculptor, known for her emotionally resonant works. Liza maintains a low public profile, but her sons are involved in continuing the family’s philanthropic efforts.
Maria Burton Carson, the adopted daughter of Taylor and Richard Burton, has led an even more private life. After a challenging childhood marked by health issues, she found her creative outlet in fashion design. Though not a public figure, Maria’s daughter serves as an ambassador for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, embodying her grandmother’s humanitarian spirit.
Each of Taylor’s children reflects a unique response to their mother’s legacy—some forging paths of creativity and service, others choosing to retreat into privacy. Their stories illuminate the complexities of growing up under the shadow of a legend, marking their own identities in the process.