Crazy Love: The Legendary Romance of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton

Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, known as one of the most iconic couples of the 20th century, starred in 11 timeless films together, such as The Taming of the Shrew and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

They not only left their mark on the silver screen but also captivated people wherever they went.

In the definitive book titled Furious Love: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and the Marriage of the Century by Sam Kashner and Nancy Schoenberger, the authors delve into the passionate beginning and extravagant life of this couple, portraying them as “doomed nomads” who traversed three continents, captivating and challenging everyone they encountered, especially each other.

Describing their intense love and desire, Taylor once expressed in 1973, “When you are in love and lust like that, you just grab it with both hands and ride out the storm.” And ride it out they did, through a whirlwind of indulgence, turmoil, controversy, and copious amounts of alcohol.

The Encounter: Antony and Cleopatra

Their story began when Burton laid eyes on Taylor for the first time in 1953 at a lavish Hollywood party hosted by movie stars Jean Simmons and Stewart Granger.

Burton was mesmerized by Taylor's extraordinary beauty, almost laughing out loud at her allure.

Taylor, already an established star at 21, initially found Burton brash and uncouth, choosing to disregard him.

However, fate brought them together nine years later when they were cast as co-stars in the epic film Cleopatra.

Their Reunion on Set

On January 22, 1962, as they met again on set in full costume and makeup, Burton made a condescending remark, asking Taylor if anyone had ever told her she was pretty.

Taylor, unimpressed by his approach, shared her surprise with her friends, mocking his attempt at flattery.

Despite this rocky start, Taylor found herself drawn to a vulnerable Burton during their initial day of shooting together, where a hungover Burton stumbled over his lines.

This incident marked the beginning of a deep connection between them.

The Unfolding Scandal

Their burgeoning love affair, labeled as “le scandale” by Burton, soon overshadowed their existing marriages, the filming of Cleopatra, and garnered global attention.

The intensity of their relationship led to dramatic events, including Taylor's fourth husband, Eddie Fisher, discovering Burton in their home, sparking confrontations and rumors of suicide attempts.

Amidst the chaos, Burton and Taylor sought solace in a rented villa, engaging in alcohol-fueled Scrabble sessions and enduring relentless paparazzi scrutiny.

Amidst the Chaos

As their fame reached unprecedented heights, the couple faced escalating public interest and scrutiny, both embracing and despising the attention.

Tales of their escapades and outbursts became fodder for gossip columns, with the media frenzy intensifying as they traveled the world together.

Despite the overwhelming public and media pressure, Burton and Taylor found moments of respite in each other's company, forming a bond that transcended the chaos surrounding them.

A Friend's Concern

Not everyone viewed their tumultuous romance with admiration.

Laurence Olivier, a close acquaintance of Burton, expressed his concern over the couple's prioritization of fame over artistic pursuits.

Olivier's telegram to Burton, questioning whether he aimed to be a legendary actor or a mere household name, underscored the tumultuous nature of their relationship and the impact it had on their careers.