Maria Burton Carson was born Maria Burton on August 1, 1961, in Germany. She was adopted by Elizabeth Taylor and her then-husband Richard Burton in 1964. At the time of her adoption, Maria was just three years old, and her biological parents’ identities have remained largely private. Her adoption was one of the numerous acts of compassion by Taylor, who was known for her philanthropic work and deep commitment to charitable causes.
Maria’s early years were spent in the glare of the Hollywood spotlight. With Elizabeth Taylor being one of the most iconic actresses of her time, Maria had access to a privileged lifestyle that included private tutors, luxurious travel, and a whirlwind of social events. Her childhood was also colored by the tumultuous relationship between her parents, who were both known for their larger-than-life personalities and highly publicized love affair. Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor’s marriage was marked by numerous reconciliations and separations, contributing to a less-than-stable family environment for Maria.
Despite the challenges that come with being part of such a high-profile family, Maria was said to have been doted upon by her parents. Taylor, who had four children from her previous marriages, was known to shower affection on Maria, often bringing her along to film sets and public events.
Career
Unlike her famous parents, Maria Burton Carson did not pursue a career in the film industry. She has largely stayed out of the public eye, choosing to live a quieter, more private life. While the specifics of her career remain somewhat obscure, it is known that she has been involved in charitable endeavors over the years, likely inspired by her mother’s lifelong commitment to activism and philanthropy.
Elizabeth Taylor was renowned for her tireless work in raising awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS research, and it is possible that Maria has continued some of this work in her own way. However, she has never sought the spotlight for her charitable efforts, preferring to contribute in private.
Maria’s decision to stay away from Hollywood is significant, given the weight of her family legacy. Her father, Richard Burton, was one of the most respected actors of his generation, and her mother, Elizabeth Taylor, was an Oscar-winning actress who achieved legendary status. It speaks to Maria’s desire to carve out a different path for herself, one away from the glitz and glamour that defined her parents’ lives.
Relationships
Maria Burton Carson has been married twice. Her first marriage was to Daniel Steve Carson, a film technician. The couple tied the knot in 1981, but the marriage did not last. Maria and Steve had one daughter together, Elizabeth Carson, named after her famous grandmother. Unfortunately, the relationship between Maria and Steve became strained, and they eventually divorced.
Following her divorce from Steve Carson, Maria went through a turbulent period in her life. Custody battles and personal challenges marked this chapter, with the press occasionally covering the details due to her family name. Elizabeth Taylor was reportedly very supportive during this difficult time, helping her daughter both emotionally and financially.
Maria later remarried, this time to musician Tom McKeown. The details of this marriage have remained relatively private, and it is unclear whether the two are still together. Maria’s relationships, much like the rest of her life, have been largely shielded from the public eye, reflecting her preference for privacy.
Real Estate
As the daughter of Elizabeth Taylor, Maria Burton Carson has inherited a portion of her mother’s vast estate, which includes several luxurious properties. Elizabeth Taylor owned multiple homes throughout her life, including a stunning mansion in Bel Air, California, and a lavish villa in Gstaad, Switzerland.
Maria herself has been linked to several properties over the years, including homes in California and New York. One of the most notable properties she has been associated with is a sprawling estate in Beverly Hills, which was previously owned by her mother. The estate, known for its lush gardens and opulent interior design, was one of Taylor’s favorite residences, and it’s likely that Maria has spent considerable time there over the years.
Real estate has been a significant aspect of Maria’s life, not just as part of her inheritance, but also as a reflection of her family’s immense wealth. These properties have been used for family gatherings, charitable events, and personal retreats, offering Maria a refuge from the pressures of the outside world.
Net Worth
Estimating Maria Burton Carson’s net worth is challenging due to her private nature and the lack of publicly available information regarding her financial assets. However, as the daughter of Elizabeth Taylor, Maria is undoubtedly the beneficiary of a substantial inheritance. Taylor’s estate was estimated to be worth around $600 million at the time of her death in 2011. This fortune included not only real estate and other investments but also her legendary jewelry collection, which was auctioned off for record-breaking sums.
While it’s unclear how much of this wealth was passed on to Maria, she is certainly in a comfortable financial position. In addition to her mother’s estate, Maria may have assets of her own from her marriage and personal endeavors. However, without concrete data, it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact figure.
Age and Height
As of 2024, Maria Burton Carson is 63 years old. Standing at an average height of approximately 5 feet 6 inches, she has often been described as a striking woman with features reminiscent of both her adoptive parents. Although she has largely stayed away from the public eye, those who have met her describe her as kind, thoughtful, and introspective, with a deep sense of loyalty to her family.
Challenges and Struggles
Despite her privileged upbringing, Maria Burton Carson has faced her share of personal struggles. Her family’s highly publicized dynamics, including her parents’ volatile relationship and numerous marriages, undoubtedly impacted her emotional well-being. Additionally, her own marital challenges, particularly her divorce from Steve Carson, were difficult periods in her life.
Maria has also had to navigate the complexities of fame by association. Being the daughter of two of Hollywood’s most famous stars meant that her life was often scrutinized by the media, despite her attempts to maintain a low profile. Over the years, she has managed to find a balance between her family’s legacy and her desire for privacy.
Conclusion
Maria Burton Carson’s life is a fascinating blend of privilege, family complexity, and personal resilience. As the adopted daughter of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, she grew up surrounded by Hollywood glamour but chose to lead a life that diverged from the fame of her parents. While much of her personal and professional life remains private, Maria has undoubtedly carved out her own identity, one that reflects both the influence of her iconic parents and her own individual path.
Today, Maria remains a figure of interest, not because of her public endeavors, but because of her connection to two of the most celebrated actors in film history. Despite the challenges she has faced, Maria Burton Carson continues to live her life with the grace and dignity instilled in her by her adoptive mother, Elizabeth Taylor.