Maria Burton Carson was born on August 1, 1961, in Munich, Germany. She came into the world under difficult circumstances, including serious congenital hip dysplasia that led to multiple surgeries in her early years. But her life took a remarkable turn in 1964 when she was adopted by Elizabeth Taylor, one of the most iconic actresses in Hollywood history. Later that same year, Richard Burton, Taylor’s on-again, off-again husband, also became Maria’s legal adoptive father. From that moment, Maria was thrust into a world of immense fame and fortune but she would ultimately choose a quieter, more private path.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Maria Hélène Elisabeth Burton Carson |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 1, 1961 |
| Place of Birth | Munich, Germany |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | Approx. 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Twice) |
| Children | 2 (Elizabeth Carson, Richard McKeown) |
| Profession | Fashion Designer, Philanthropist |
| Current Residence | Idaho, USA |
| Social Media | Not publicly active |
| Estimated Net Worth | Undisclosed, presumed high |
Early Life and Adoption
Maria’s early life was shaped by both physical challenges and dramatic transitions. Her congenital hip condition required extensive medical attention, including surgeries and physical therapy. Despite these hurdles, she was adopted at the age of three by Elizabeth Taylor, who had already made headlines not only for her acting career but also for her tumultuous personal life. Maria was soon surrounded by bodyguards, press, and the trappings of stardom, but also love and care from one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures.
Taylor’s marriage to Welsh actor Richard Burton, who adopted Maria shortly after their wedding, brought additional layers to her upbringing. The pair’s volatile and much-publicized relationship created an intense and unpredictable household. Still, Maria was treated with deep affection by both parents, even amidst their frequent arguments and separations.
Family Dynamics and Siblings
Maria Burton Carson grew up in a large and complex blended family. She had multiple siblings from Taylor’s previous marriages and extended family ties through Burton. Her siblings include Michael Wilding Jr., Christopher Wilding, and Liza Todd, as well as Kate Burton and Jessica Burton, Richard Burton’s daughters from other relationships.
Though surrounded by a high-profile family, Maria often kept to herself. The glitz and noise of Hollywood seemed to contrast with her reserved nature. Still, the sibling relationships were often warm, even if complicated by their parents’ constant appearances in headlines.
Living in the Public Eye
As a child of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Maria’s life unfolded under the spotlight. The family was a media sensation in the 1960s and 1970s, often gracing tabloid covers and entertainment columns. Whether on film sets, at charity events, or international vacations, cameras often followed. Yet, Taylor was fiercely protective of Maria, determined to shelter her from the downsides of fame.
Despite being photographed and discussed in the press, Maria never sought attention for herself. She rarely spoke in interviews or made public statements, a pattern that continued well into adulthood. While her adoptive parents embraced stardom, Maria leaned into privacy.
Education and Growth
Maria’s academic background is largely kept away from public records, a testament to her lifelong pursuit of privacy. What is known is that Elizabeth Taylor ensured she had access to top-tier education and upbringing. Taylor was known to be a hands-on mother, even amidst her whirlwind acting schedule and romantic entanglements.
Maria’s interests blossomed away from the screen. Unlike her mother, she did not pursue acting. Instead, she began to lean into fashion design and philanthropy, fields that allowed her to express creativity and compassion without being on center stage.
Career and Philanthropy
Maria eventually made a name for herself in fashion design, a career that offered artistic freedom without fame. She kept her business dealings private, never chasing the spotlight that came so naturally to her parents. Her work reflected her deep interest in aesthetics and grace traits often associated with her mother.
Her philanthropic activities have also drawn quiet admiration. She has supported causes aligned with her mother’s legacy, including children’s health, mental well-being, and HIV/AIDS awareness. Maria has reportedly worked with the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, although she has never sought media coverage for her contributions. She is known among a close network of family and charity workers as someone who prefers to act without applause.
Personal Life and Motherhood
Maria married Daniel Steve Carson in 1981, and the couple had a daughter, Elizabeth Carson, born in 1982. The marriage lasted nearly two decades but ended in divorce in 2000. Her daughter, Elizabeth, was named after her famous grandmother and has appeared in public events honoring Elizabeth Taylor.
Maria later married Tom McKeown, with whom she had a son, Richard. However, this marriage was marked by conflict and eventually led to legal disputes, including claims of domestic abuse. Maria obtained a restraining order during their divorce proceedings and prioritized the safety of her family.
Through these difficult experiences, Maria maintained a sense of composure and strength. Those close to her describe her as deeply protective of her children and determined to offer them a peaceful life a contrast to the drama that often surrounded her own upbringing.
Life After Elizabeth Taylor
The death of Elizabeth Taylor in 2011 was a turning point. The loss was deeply personal for Maria, who had always shared a special bond with her adoptive mother. Though she did not speak publicly, it was clear from family accounts that Maria grieved intensely.
Elizabeth Taylor’s passing also prompted widespread speculation about her will and estate. While most reports confirmed that her children, including Maria, were beneficiaries, exact details remain confidential. It is assumed Maria received a portion of Taylor’s considerable wealth, estimated in the hundreds of millions.
A Life of Privacy in Idaho
Today, Maria Burton Carson lives in Idaho, far from the buzz of Los Angeles or New York. Her life is largely undocumented by the media. She is not active on social platforms like Instagram or Twitter, and she has kept her appearances at public events to a bare minimum.
Her home life is reportedly quiet, focused on family and wellness. Sources indicate she enjoys the natural surroundings of Idaho, maintaining a simple lifestyle away from the legacies of fame. Despite the wealth and recognition attached to her name, she has chosen peace over popularity.
Legacy and Identity
Maria Burton Carson stands as an emblem of a different kind of legacy. She is not an actress, not a celebrity, and not a socialite. Instead, she is a woman who grew up surrounded by fame but chose her own path marked by modesty, motherhood, and meaningful causes.
Her decision to live privately while honoring her roots reflects inner strength. In many ways, she continues her mother’s legacy not through glamor but through grace. She remains one of the least public yet deeply intriguing members of the Taylor-Burton family tree.
FAQs
Who are Maria Burton Carson’s parents?
She was adopted by Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton in 1964.
Is Maria Burton Carson involved in acting?
No, she pursued fashion design and philanthropic work.
Where does Maria Burton Carson live?
She resides in Idaho, maintaining a quiet and private lifestyle.
Does Maria Burton Carson have children?
Yes, she has two children: Elizabeth Carson and Richard McKeown.
Is Maria active on social media?
No, she does not maintain any public social media profiles.
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