How did Elizabeth Taylor become one of the highest-paid actresses of all time? From her iconic Hollywood career to her billion-dollar perfume empire, she accumulated vast wealth that still fascinates fans today. Her financial journey included record-breaking movie salaries, smart investments, and an unmatched jewelry collection.
But exactly how much was her fortune worth? And what role did her business ventures and investments play in building her empire?
Let’s dive deep into Elizabeth Taylor net worth, wealth, salary, and financial legacy to uncover the secrets behind her financial success.
Elizabeth Taylor Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor |
| Popular Name | Elizabeth Taylor |
| Birth Date | February 27, 1932 |
| Age | Died: March 23, 2011 (age 79 years) |
| Birthplace | London, England |
| Nationality | British-American |
| Ethnicity | English, Welsh, Irish |
| Education | Hawthorne School, Los Angeles (brief) |
| Marital Status | Married 8 times |
| Spouse | Conrad Hilton Jr., Michael Wilding, Mike Todd, Eddie Fisher, Richard Burton, John Warner, Larry Fortensky |
| Children | Liza Todd, Maria Burton, Christopher Edward Wilding, Michael Wilding Jr. |
| Dating | Anthony Geary (briefly) |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | Sara Sothern, Francis Lenn Taylor |
| Height | 1.57 meters |
| Net Worth | Approx. $600 Million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, business ventures, investments, endorsements |
What is the Net Worth of Elizabeth Taylor in 2025?
Elizabeth Taylor’s net worth was estimated at $600 million at the time of her passing in 2011. While her estate value fluctuates over time, her fragrance empire, royalties from classic films like Cleopatra, and jewelry collection continue to generate revenue.
Her wealth places her among the most financially successful actresses in history, alongside legends like Audrey Hepburn and Sophia Loren.
Taylor’s financial legacy remains influential in Hollywood, setting a precedent for modern stars negotiating high salaries and business ventures beyond acting.
Her impact is comparable to today’s richest celebrities, proving her business acumen extended far beyond the silver screen.
Related People & Companies
- MGM Studios
- Richard Burton
- Michael Todd
- Eddie Fisher
- John Warner
- Larry Fortensky
- Hollywood film industry
- American Foundation for AIDS Research
- Simon Wiesenthal Center
- Elizabeth Taylor Fragrances
Elizabeth Taylor Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Did She Accumulate Her Wealth?
Elizabeth Taylor’s financial journey started early. By the 1950s, she was already one of Hollywood’s top-paid actresses, signing lucrative contracts with MGM Studios. Her acting career alone made her millions, but her business ventures and investments significantly boosted her fortune.
- Hollywood Movie Salaries: Taylor became the first actress to earn $1 million for a single role, playing Cleopatra in 1963.
- Jewelry Collection: Known for her extravagant lifestyle, she owned some of the world’s most valuable jewels, including pieces from Richard Burton.
- Business Ventures: She launched Elizabeth Taylor Fragrances, which generated over $1 billion in revenue.
- Real Estate Investments: She owned luxurious properties in Beverly Hills, London, and beyond.
What Were Her Highest-Paying Movies?
Taylor starred in numerous box office hits, earning record-breaking salaries along the way. Some of her highest-paid roles include:
- Cleopatra (1963): The first $1 million salary in Hollywood history.
- Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966): Won her second Academy Award and earned a massive paycheck.
- Butterfield 8 (1960): A controversial film that earned her first Oscar.
How Much Was She Paid for Her Most Famous Roles?
Her salaries varied across different films, but her earnings grew exponentially as her career progressed.
- A Place in the Sun (1951): Helped solidify her stardom and increased her salary.
- Giant (1956): Starred alongside James Dean and Rock Hudson, boosting her market value.
- Suddenly, Last Summer (1959): Earned her first Golden Globe Award.
What Businesses and Investments Contributed to Her Wealth?
Beyond acting, Taylor was a savvy entrepreneur. She expanded her brand into fragrances, fashion, and luxury assets.
- Elizabeth Taylor Fragrances: One of the first celebrity perfume lines, grossing over $1 billion.
- Jewelry Collection: Included pieces from Cartier, Bulgari, and Van Cleef & Arpels.
- Real Estate Holdings: Multiple luxury properties across the U.S. and Europe.
How Did She Manage Her Finances and Lifestyle?
Despite her massive earnings, Taylor was known for her lavish spending. However, she also made smart financial moves, balancing her lifestyle with investment strategies.
- Luxury Lifestyle: Owned private jets, mansions, and designer collections.
- Philanthropy: Donated over $270 million to AIDS research, founding The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.
- Financial Challenges: Managed high expenses but secured steady income through film royalties and business ventures.
What Was Her Financial Legacy?
Elizabeth Taylor’s financial impact continues even after her passing. Her estate remains valuable, her films still generate royalties, and her business ventures keep thriving.
- Hollywood Influence: Set new standards for actress salaries and contract negotiations.
- Business Legacy: Paved the way for celebrity-owned brands in perfumes and fashion.
- Philanthropy: Her commitment to AIDS awareness and humanitarian efforts is still celebrated today.
Conclusion
Elizabeth Taylor was more than just a Hollywood icon—she was a financial powerhouse. Her legacy lives on through her films, business empire, and philanthropy. If you’re interested in more celebrity wealth insights, visit andomoney.com and explore how other stars built their fortunes. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
