Elizabeth Taylor’s Heartbreaking Struggle During Her Marriage to Eddie Fisher
Elizabeth Taylor’s turbulent marriage to Eddie Fisher is set to be explored in a new documentary, “Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes.” This film sheds light on the tragic depths of Taylor’s struggles, revealing that she contemplated suicide due to her unhappiness with Fisher.
Taylor’s Marriage and Emotional Crisis
Marriage to Eddie Fisher
Elizabeth Taylor’s relationship with Eddie Fisher was scandalous from the start. They married in 1959, just weeks after Fisher’s divorce from actress Debbie Reynolds. Taylor, who had previously been married three times, found herself in a tumultuous situation with Fisher.
Desperate Times and Suicide Attempt
In the documentary, Taylor’s interviews with journalist Richard Meryman from 1964 to 1965 come to light. Taylor described her marriage to Fisher as “one big friggin’ awful mistake,” reflecting the profound dissatisfaction she felt. According to Taylor, Fisher made her feel isolated, stating, “Eddie made sure that I felt lonely. We never went out.”
Taylor’s depression led her to a drastic and heartbreaking decision. She attempted suicide by taking sleeping pills, doing so “deliberately, calmly and in front of” Fisher. In a tape recording, Taylor expressed her despair, saying, “I’d rather be dead than face divorce. I was fed up with living.”
Reflection and Regret
Later, Taylor viewed her suicide attempt as “self-indulgent,” recognising the severe impact it could have had on her children. At the time, she had three children from previous marriages: Michael Wilding Jr. and Christopher Wilding from her second marriage to Michael Wilding, and Liza Frances Todd from her third marriage to Mike Todd.
Elizabeth Taylor’s Marital Journey
Marriage to Richard Burton
In 1964, Taylor left Fisher for Richard Burton, marking the beginning of a high-profile and passionate relationship. Taylor and Burton married twice, highlighting the tumultuous yet intense nature of their bond.
Throughout her life, Taylor had a total of eight marriages with seven different men. Despite the controversies, Taylor’s personal life remains a compelling part of her legacy.
Todd Fisher’s Perspective
In 2023, Todd Fisher, Reynolds and Fisher’s son, spoke about the impact of his father’s affair with Taylor. Fisher described how his father’s departure for Taylor was perceived by many as a betrayal, stating, “A lot of people were mad about that.”
He characterised Taylor as the “bad girl” who left a significant mark on Hollywood, contrasting her with Reynolds, who was seen as the “good girl.”
Documentary Director’s View
Nanette Burstein, the director of “Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes,” has voiced her opinion on Taylor’s public image. Burstein believes Taylor was unjustly “slut-shamed” for her personal relationships, reflecting on how societal views of Taylor were often harsh and critical.
Elizabeth Taylor’s Legacy
Final Years and Death
Elizabeth Taylor passed away in March 2011 at the age of 79. Her death was attributed to congestive heart failure. Her son Christopher Wilding expressed his admiration for her, stating, “My mother was an extraordinary woman who lived life to the fullest, with great passion, humor and love.”
Cultural Impact and Reflection
Taylor’s life, including her struggles and triumphs, continues to captivate audiences. Her story is a poignant reminder of the complexities behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, showing that even the brightest stars face profound personal challenges.
Conclusion: Understanding Taylor’s Personal Struggles
Elizabeth Taylor’s marriage to Eddie Fisher was marked by intense emotional turmoil, as revealed in “Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes.” Her contemplation of suicide highlights the severe impact of her personal struggles during that period.
Key Takeaways
- Marriage Struggles: Taylor’s marriage to Fisher was fraught with isolation and unhappiness.
- Suicide Attempt: Taylor’s attempt to end her life reflects her profound despair.
- Legacy: Despite her personal struggles, Taylor’s life remains a significant part of Hollywood history.
