Thirty-four years ago today, the girl who would become a famous actress wed her eighth husband
A Hollywood Fairytale Wedding 34 Years Ago
Exactly 34 years ago, a construction worker and a global actress stunned the entertainment world by exchanging vows. On October 6, 1991, the legendary Elizabeth Taylor married blue-collar Larry Fortensky at Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch. This marked her eighth and final marriage. Their unexpected romance captivated tabloids, and though the union didn’t last, it ended with genuine affection.
Sparks Fly Behind Clinic Walls
Their story began in 1988 at the Betty Ford Clinic. Elizabeth, 56, returned for her second stay. Larry, 36, was a sun-baked construction worker with a troubled past, including multiple DUIs and a truck accident. He was in rehab courtesy of the Teamsters Union Insurance.
Elizabeth called him “Larry the Lion.” Larry later admitted, “I knew who she was, but I can’t say I watched her films.” Their connection grew during six weeks in treatment. He became protective, and she found his simplicity refreshing. Despite their age and world differences, they bonded fast.
A Romance Beyond Fame
Larry, a twice-divorced high school dropout, had lived a life untouched by stardom. He had never flown on a plane. Elizabeth admired his grounded nature. After leaving rehab, their romance blossomed. She often sent a limo to pick him up, though his remote home frequently trapped it in the mud. Even Larry’s family was unaware of the affair at first.
By Christmas 1988, Elizabeth invited Larry into her lavish home—a world of Van Goghs, full staff, and tight security. Larry, who had only seen such spaces from afar, felt both awe and belonging.
Hollywood Extravaganza at Neverland
Their wedding matched Hollywood glamour. Over 200 guests gathered at Neverland Ranch beneath a white gazebo. Carole Bayer Sager served as maid of honor, and celebrity hairstylist Jose Eber was best man.
Paparazzi chaos ensued: helicopters hovered, and one photographer parachuted onto the property before being caught. Inside, the atmosphere remained surreal, with Michael Jackson dancing on the floor and a guest list featuring Liza Minnelli, Eddie Murphy, Gregory Peck, and Nancy Reagan.
The actress holds hands with fiancé Larry Fortensky and waves at the press on January 1, 1991 | Source: Getty Images
Snow Angels, Biker Rides, and Down-to-Earth Moments
Larry shared private memories: Elizabeth playing in the snow in Switzerland, riding a Harley along the Pacific Coast Highway, and stopping at biker bars for burgers and beer. She even trained a parrot to call “Larry, Larry.” Despite fame and fortune, Elizabeth encouraged simplicity and fun.
Larry never sought to be a kept man. He continued working while Elizabeth ensured he was comfortable, providing a private chef and delivered meals. Their life blended ordinary routines with extraordinary glamour.
Cracks Behind the Glamour
Over time, differences emerged. Elizabeth urged Larry to leave construction and accompany her on trips. Larry felt stifled. Her declining health and relentless paparazzi attention strained their intimacy.
“Everywhere we went, cameras followed,” Larry recalled. “Elizabeth was used to it. I never got used to it.”
Divorce and Aftermath
In 1996, Elizabeth filed for divorce, admitting both were unhappy. Larry returned to ordinary life, now with over a million dollars. Yet financial struggles followed. Medical bills, poor investments, and family disputes drained his savings.
Despite distance, Elizabeth and Larry stayed in touch. She sent money to help him after accidents and financial troubles, though he accepted reluctantly. Their bond endured, though life had moved on.
A Lasting Connection
Their final phone call came the day before Elizabeth was hospitalized. She reassured him despite her failing health. She died on March 23, 2011, at age 79. Larry learned of her passing days later via television.
Elizabeth left him a gesture of love in her will, though most of her fortune went to her children. Larry reflected, “I love her, I always will. And I know she loved me too.” He passed away in 2016 at 64, closing the chapter on one of Hollywood’s most unlikely love stories.