Elizabeth Taylor. Just the name conjures images of sparkling diamonds, unforgettable screen roles, and a life lived larger than life. She was an Academy Award-winning actress, a business mogul, and a superstar whose every move made headlines for over six decades. A trailblazer who famously commanded an unheard-of $1 million salary for 1963’s “Cleopatra,” Taylor’s impact on Hollywood and popular culture is undeniable, leaving an indelible mark that resonates even today, years after her passing.
Beyond the glitz and glamour of her public persona, however, Elizabeth Taylor cherished a much more intimate, beloved title: “grandmother.” She was a devoted mother to four children from her eight marriages, and her family tree blossomed to include ten beautiful grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. These lucky individuals had the extraordinary privilege of growing up with one of the world’s most famous women, experiencing her not as a distant icon, but as a loving, present figure in their lives.
While Taylor’s grandchildren have largely chosen to carve out their own paths away from the intense media spotlight that followed their grandmother, they’ve inherited more than just her stunning looks and charisma. They carry forward her indomitable spirit, her passion for activism, and her profound sense of purpose. Join us as we take an in-depth look at the remarkable lives of five of Elizabeth Taylor’s grandchildren, exploring how they’ve blossomed into impressive adults, each with their own unique story, all while honoring and actively shaping her enduring legacy.
1. **Laela Wilding: A Creative Soul Nurturing a Humanitarian Legacy**In 1971, Elizabeth Taylor experienced the joy of becoming a grandmother for the very first time with the birth of Laela Wilding. As the eldest daughter of Michael Wilding Jr. and Johanna Lykke-Dahn, Laela spent her formative years in Northern California, yet maintained an incredibly close bond with her iconic grandmother. Their connection was woven through cherished moments, including nearly every holiday celebration and frequent Sunday visits, painting a picture of a devoted and present “granny” rather than a distant celebrity. Laela fondly remembers these times, which shaped her understanding of Taylor as a person rather than just a star.
Laela has openly shared intimate details of her relationship with her grandmother, revealing a side of Taylor few in the public ever saw. She recounted memories of Elizabeth Taylor personally cutting her hair, a testament to the hands-on and artistic nature that permeated Taylor’s life. “She was very artistic. She had a great eye,” Laela shared with Art & Understanding Magazine in 2018, emphasizing her grandmother’s innate creative talents that extended far beyond the silver screen, touching even the simplest, most personal interactions.
Taylor’s flair for beauty and personal style was also a shared experience. Laela recalled her grandmother’s enjoyment in helping with makeup, noting that a “smoky eye was key,” and offering invaluable styling advice. It was during these moments that Taylor imparted a piece of her legendary fashion philosophy, playfully advising, “If you’ve got it, flaunt it.” This confident adage clearly resonated with Laela, who has herself blossomed into a creative individual with a keen aesthetic, now working as a graphic designer and yoga instructor in Portland, Oregon.
Beyond her creative pursuits, Laela is a passionate and dedicated ambassador for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF), actively carrying forward a mission that became central to her grandmother’s later life. She recounted to People in 2017 how Taylor courageously wore a red ribbon at the 1992 Oscars, a powerful public statement in support of the fight against HIV/AIDS. “She wore it proudly and she wore it the rest of her life,” Laela emphasized, highlighting Taylor’s unwavering commitment to the cause.
Laela, along with many other family members, has made a profound promise to continue her grandmother’s vital work as an HIV and AIDS advocate. Her activism extends beyond the foundation; she also serves on the board of directors at Our House of Portland, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping low-income HIV+ individuals. It’s evident that Laela embodies her grandmother’s compassionate, determined, and trailblazing spirit, channeling it into impactful humanitarian efforts that are truly making a difference.
2. **Naomi deLuce Wilding: From London Visits to Leading the LA Art Scene**Born in 1976, Naomi deLuce Wilding is Laela Wilding’s younger sister and Elizabeth Taylor’s second grandchild. Her upbringing in the United Kingdom meant that her relationship with Elizabeth Taylor, while equally loving and profound, was shaped by distance. Naomi primarily saw her grandmother during special holiday visits, making those concentrated periods of time together incredibly cherished and memorable. These visits were filled with unique experiences, giving Naomi a distinct perspective on her famous “granny.”
A significant turning point brought Naomi physically closer to Taylor. In the late 1990s, while she was pursuing a career as a fashion designer in Manhattan and attempting to secure a green card, Naomi experienced a distressing apartment burglary. Elizabeth Taylor immediately stepped in with characteristic generosity and support, offering not just emotional comfort but also practical solutions. “She said, ‘I’ll get you a lawyer, we’ll get you a green card, and everything will be okay,'” Naomi shared with Art & Understanding Magazine, recalling her grandmother’s swift and powerful intervention.
This act of love led Naomi to move in with her grandmother in California, an experience she fondly described as “amazing.” For nearly two years, she resided at Taylor’s lavish estate, gaining an intimate, day-to-day perspective on her grandmother’s life. This extended stay not only deepened their personal bond but also provided Naomi with invaluable mentorship and a unique immersion into the world of one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures, truly shaping her outlook and ambitions.
Today, Naomi is a successful and respected figure in the art world, running the Wilding Cran Gallery, a prominent contemporary art space in Los Angeles, alongside her husband, Anthony Cran. Her artistic endeavors and entrepreneurial spirit reflect a shared creative sensibility with her grandmother, who herself had a “great eye” for beauty and art. Naomi’s career choice showcases her ability to forge her own path while still carrying forward an artistic legacy.
Like her big sister Laela, Naomi is also a dedicated ambassador for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, proudly continuing the humanitarian work that became such a defining part of Taylor’s later life. She vividly remembers sitting in her grandmother’s dressing room, observing the “transformation unfold” as Taylor prepared, a memory that underlines the blend of superstar and devoted family member. Naomi emphasized to Today in 2021 that despite being a superstar, Taylor was simply a “loving, squishy, delicious grandma who was always welcoming us in,” highlighting the warmth and approachability of the icon in private.
Naomi credits her grandmother not just for spoiling her with designer gifts during a childhood Christmas visit – including “A silk nightdress and dressing gown by Christian Dior, dresses by YSL, Chanel, and Dior” – but for instilling profound values. She explained that Taylor taught her “the idea of following your heart and being true to whatever love you have – not to be afraid of being hurt,” a philosophy that continues to guide her life and work. Naomi’s unwavering commitment to Taylor’s AIDS advocacy stems from her grandmother’s early recognition of the crisis’s urgency, which prompted her to put “herself front and center in a very sincere way.”
3. **Elizabeth “Eliza” Carson: A Social Worker’s Dedication Inspired by Taylor’s Humanitarianism**Born in 1982, Elizabeth “Eliza” Carson holds a truly special place in the family as the only grandchild explicitly named after the legendary star. She is the daughter of Taylor’s adopted daughter, Maria Burton, and her life has been intricately linked with her iconic grandmother from a young age. Growing up, Eliza spent considerable time at Taylor’s sprawling estate, soaking in the atmosphere of glamour and family warmth. She also had the unique opportunity to accompany her grandmother on memorable trips, creating a rich tapestry of personal anecdotes and shared experiences that most can only dream of.
One particularly fond memory Eliza shared with Over Sixty involved spending an entire summer vacationing with her grandmother in the Dominican Republic. What was initially planned as a two-week trip for the then-17-year-old high school graduate extended into a whole summer getaway, a testament to the special bond they shared and Taylor’s spontaneous generosity. While Carson openly acknowledged and appreciated the glitz and glamour inherent in Taylor’s lifestyle, it was her grandmother’s profound and unwavering humanitarianism that resonated most deeply and left the most lasting impression on Eliza. “She always stood up for what was right,” Taylor’s third-born granddaughter proudly asserted, indicating a core value she clearly absorbed.
Following directly in her grandmother’s powerful footsteps, Eliza has dedicated her professional life to social work. “I work for the Department of Child Protection in Manhattan. I’m doing social work,” she shared, embodying Taylor’s deep-seated commitment to helping others and advocating for the vulnerable. This career choice is a powerful generational legacy of empathy and a direct reflection of the values her grandmother instilled, proving that Taylor’s influence extended far beyond Hollywood into meaningful societal contributions.
Like her older cousins, Eliza is also an enthusiastic ambassador for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, actively participating in events and initiatives to further the cause. She revealed to Town & Country in 2016 that her grandmother’s humanitarian efforts directly informed her career path. Carson eloquently explained, “My grandmother used her fame to her advantage to gain public attention for a disease that people were not only fearful of but often in total denial about,” highlighting Taylor’s courage and strategic use of her platform. Eliza’s own work in child protection, seeing babies born from HIV+ mothers test negative, brings her to tears, often prompting a silent thanks to her grandmother and other advocates for making such advancements possible.
Eliza finds profound comfort and an enduring connection to her grandmother through her signature scents. Speaking with People in 2025, she opened up about her deeply personal attachment to Taylor’s famous White Diamonds fragrance. “I’d add a touch of White Diamonds on my wrists before big court cases,” she shared, explaining how it helped center her, feeling “like carrying a little part of her strength into the room.” Carson also recalls the constant presence of flowers in Taylor’s home and garden, but it’s the familiar, sweet fragrance of White Diamonds and Gardenia that instantly transports her back to those precious moments and to “her.”
4. **Caleb Wilding: The First Grandson Who Embraced a Path of Privacy**In the early 1980s, Elizabeth Taylor was delighted to meet her very first grandson, Caleb Wilding, who was born in 1983. Caleb’s journey into the Taylor family was through adoption by Christopher Wilding, Elizabeth’s son, and his wife, Aileen Getty. Aileen, a member of the incredibly prominent Getty family, had faced several deeply personal and unsuccessful pregnancies, making Caleb’s adoption a moment of immense joy and profound significance for the couple and the broader family. It marked a new chapter, bringing a precious child into their lives.
Aileen Getty openly shared the emotional challenges she faced, telling People in 1992, “It was traumatic because I really wanted a child,” underscoring the deep desire and the subsequent joy and relief that Caleb’s arrival brought. While Caleb became part of one of Hollywood’s most famous and glamorous families, he has, notably, largely chosen to live a life deliberately out of the public eye. Details about his personal life and career are exceptionally scarce, a clear reflection of his preference for privacy and a desire to carve out his own identity away from the glare of celebrity.
Despite his decision to maintain a distinctly low profile, Caleb has occasionally made public appearances, demonstrating a quiet yet firm connection to his family’s philanthropic endeavors. He has been photographed alongside his mother at galas and fundraisers dedicated to HIV/AIDS awareness and research. These appearances are a testament to his support for causes that were incredibly close to his grandmother’s heart and, tragically, became a very personal journey for his mother. It’s a subtle way of honoring the Taylor legacy without stepping into the limelight himself.
The context provides limited specific details about Caleb’s personal interests, but one intriguing tidbit mentions that he is reportedly a fan of motorcycles. This hobby is shared with his cousin, Tarquin Wilding, offering a small glimpse into a personality that appreciates adventure, independence, and perhaps a sense of freedom that comes with the open road, far removed from the public scrutiny associated with his family name. This shared interest provides a quiet connection between two cousins who otherwise lead distinct lives.
While Caleb may not be as vocal an advocate or public figure as some of his cousins, his occasional, deliberate presence at events supporting HIV/AIDS awareness demonstrates a subtle yet profoundly important connection to his grandmother’s monumental legacy. His choice to live a private life is respected and understood within the family, allowing him to forge his own path and define success on his own terms, all while remaining a cherished and integral member of the illustrious Taylor-Wilding family.
5. **Andrew Wilding: Crafting His Own Path Behind the Camera in Filmmaking**Born in 1984, Andrew Wilding is Elizabeth Taylor’s second grandson, the biological son of Christopher Wilding and Aileen Getty, welcomed just a year after Caleb’s adoption. Andrew’s early life was marked by considerable challenges, notably his mother Aileen Getty’s deeply personal and public health struggles. When Andrew was only six months old, Aileen received the traumatic news that she had tested positive for HIV, an event that profoundly impacted their family’s trajectory and led to a difficult period.
Aileen Getty bravely shared her struggles with the public, including a period where she moved to New York City with her sons and battled cocaine use. These difficulties led, for a time, to Caleb and Andrew being removed from her custody, a heartbreaking situation. “My children are my lifeline. But they deserved better,” Getty expressed to People, powerfully conveying the immense love and fierce determination that eventually saw her overcome these challenges, regain custody, and re-center her life on her children’s well-being and a new path of advocacy.
Andrew, like his legendary grandmother, found his calling in the dynamic world of the entertainment industry. However, he chose a distinct path, opting to work predominantly behind the camera rather than in front of it. He has pursued a career primarily as a cinematographer and producer, a decision that allows him to contribute creatively to storytelling without necessarily embracing the intense public scrutiny and personal demands that defined Elizabeth Taylor’s acting career. This choice reflects a thoughtful balance between family legacy and personal preference.
His work as a cinematographer and producer showcases a sophisticated artistic sensibility, allowing him to shape visual narratives and bring stories to life through the lens. While Andrew largely operates behind the scenes, the context does note that he has a couple of acting roles listed on his IMDB profile, indicating a brief, perhaps experimental, foray into performing. However, it is clear that his main passion and professional focus lie in the intricate craft of filmmaking from a technical and artistic perspective, an expression that echoes his grandmother’s profound connection to the visual medium of film.
Andrew’s journey in filmmaking, coupled with his occasional, understated appearances at HIV/AIDS fundraisers alongside his mother, demonstrates a quiet yet steadfast dedication to both his artistic passion and his family’s deeply rooted philanthropic commitment. He represents a generation that values privacy and personal agency while still honoring the powerful, humanitarian values instilled by his iconic grandmother. Through his chosen career and his quiet support, Andrew ensures that Elizabeth Taylor’s spirit of purpose and artistry continues to live on in diverse and profoundly personal ways.
6. **Quinn Tivey: An Artist and Trust Co-Trustee Carrying a Powerful Torch**Stepping into the sixth spot of Elizabeth Taylor’s remarkable grandchildren, we introduce Quinn Tivey, the thoughtful and artistically inclined son of Liza Todd and Hap Tivey. Born in 1986, Quinn grew up with a unique perspective on his iconic grandmother, experiencing her not as a distant superstar, but as a warm, relatable figure. He famously shared a memory of “Grandma” Taylor that many might find surprising, revealing to Page Six (via Town & Country’s Philanthropy Summit) that “A lot of people do not know this, but Grandma could be really raunchy.” These intimate moments, like watching ‘Law & Order’ and eating PB&J sandwiches together, paint a vivid picture of a grandmother who was truly present, cherishing simple family time.
Beyond these cherished personal memories, Quinn has taken on a significant role in preserving and advancing his grandmother’s monumental legacy. As an artist himself, he also serves as a co-trustee of the Elizabeth Taylor Trust, a responsibility he shares with a deep sense of purpose. An event honoring Taylor’s work profoundly moved him, leading him to realize “how crucial it was for her family to be participating in her legacy,” as he told Town & Country in 2017. He felt compelled to “dive into the deep end” of involvement.
Quinn’s commitment to the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF) is unwavering. He serves as an officer for the organization and was instrumental in co-founding a Los Angeles branch of generationCURE, a youth group dedicated to eradicating the AIDS pandemic. In a 2013 essay for HuffPost, he emphasized his mission extends beyond fundraising, aiming to spread awareness about protection and testing. He highlighted a vital, ongoing need for education, noting that “many of my friends don’t seem to regard HIV/AIDS as a major concern in their lives.”
In 2021, Quinn further articulated his dedication in a People essay, detailing ETAF’s “HIV Is Not A Crime” initiative. This critical work strives to reverse discriminatory legislation in over 30 states that criminalize individuals living with HIV. “I’m honored to see ETAF continue [Taylor’s] work,” he enthused, emphasizing the importance of “educating legislators, raising awareness for the public, disproving myths, and decreasing fear and stigma.” Through his artistic endeavors and tireless advocacy, Quinn Tivey stands as a living testament to Elizabeth Taylor’s enduring spirit of compassion and fight for justice.
7. **Tarquin Wilding: A Filmmaker and Family Man Continuing a Legacy of Generosity**Continuing our exploration of Elizabeth Taylor’s dynamic grandchildren, we turn to Tarquin Wilding, the younger brother of Laela and Naomi Wilding. Born in 1989 to Michael Wilding Jr. and Brooke Palance, daughter of the esteemed actor Jack Palance, Tarquin has carved out his own unique path while deeply valuing his family roots. His appreciation for his family shines through his words: “I often think about how lucky I am to have been born into a group of such wacky, caring, sensitive people,” he shared with Town & Country in 2017, reflecting on the close-knit bond he shares with his cousins.
Tarquin’s admiration for his legendary grandmother is profound, particularly her boundless giving nature. “We admire my grandmother for her boundless generosity, and I believe that we all feel grateful to be able to honor and continue her legacy. Especially together,” he expressed. This sentiment underscores a shared family commitment to upholding Taylor’s humanitarian spirit, demonstrating that her influence extends across generations, inspiring them to make a positive impact in the world.
Much like his cousin Andrew, Tarquin has found his niche in the entertainment industry, primarily as a talented filmmaker and cinematographer, choosing to work behind the camera. While he did try his hand at acting, notably appearing in a 2015 episode of “Shameless,” his creative pursuits allow him to express his artistic vision without the constant public scrutiny. A fascinating tidbit is his shared passion for motorcycles with his cousin Caleb, suggesting a love for adventure and the open road, a quiet escape from the bustle of celebrity.
Beyond his creative work and personal interests, Tarquin is also a dedicated ambassador for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, actively championing the cause that was so dear to his grandmother. He passionately declared, “My grandmother was a total badass! I can’t help but be inspired by her unbreakable courage, and boundless generosity. I want to continue her legacy and be a part of the fight towards securing a better future for those living with HIV/AIDS, and to one day see an AIDS-free generation!” Tarquin is also a family man, having welcomed his daughter, Violet Wilding, with wife Kasimira Wilding, continuing the beautiful lineage of this remarkable family.
8. **Lowell Wilding: The Archivist Preserving a Priceless Legacy**Our journey through Elizabeth Taylor’s remarkable grandchildren now brings us to Lowell Wilding, the son of Christopher Wilding and his second wife, Margaret Carlton. Born in 1991, Lowell grew up witnessing the profound impact his grandmother had on the world, particularly through her tireless advocacy. This observation instilled in him a deep sense of respect and a desire to honor her memory in a truly unique and significant way, reflecting his thoughtful and dedicated nature.
Lowell’s admiration for Elizabeth Taylor’s humanitarianism is palpable. “I was always in total awe of the good my grandmother was able to accomplish in her lifetime,” he shared with the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. He noted her profound choice to engage in activism when she could have easily remained silent: “She could so easily have done nothing, like so many others. Instead she fought, she cared, and she worked for people suffering with HIV/AIDS.” These words highlight the powerful moral compass Taylor possessed, a quality that clearly inspired her grandson.
Driven by this profound inspiration, Lowell has taken on a truly special project: compiling the Elizabeth Taylor Archive. This ambitious endeavor, a new addition to the Elizabeth Taylor Trust, is a meticulous effort to gather and preserve the vast array of materials that document his grandmother’s extraordinary life and career. It’s a labor of love that ensures her stories, achievements, and contributions will be safeguarded for future generations. Like many of his cousins, Lowell is also an active ambassador for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, ensuring her voice and her fight for justice continue to resonate powerfully in the modern world.
9. **Rhys Tivey: A Musician and Advocate for a Better World**Next on our list of Elizabeth Taylor’s impressive grandchildren is Rhys Tivey, the second son of Liza Todd and Hap Tivey, and brother to Quinn Tivey. Rhys, a true artist in his own right, grew up in upstate New York before heading to New York City, where he honed his musical talents. He earned a jazz degree from NYU, launching him into a vibrant career as an accomplished trumpeter, singer, and songwriter, showcasing the diverse artistic talents running through the family.
Rhys’s musical endeavors extend beyond performing; he has also taught music and yoga to middle school children across New York City. His creative contributions also include acting in and composing music for various stage productions, further illustrating his versatile artistic spirit. This blend of performance and teaching highlights a holistic approach to his craft, enriching both his own life and the lives of those he mentors in the community.
Like his brother Quinn and many of his cousins, Rhys is deeply proud to carry Elizabeth Taylor’s torch, especially concerning her humanitarian work. He actively supports the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF), telling Vegan Food & Living in 2017, “I try to do whatever I can to help [the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation] and continue my grandmother’s work, sometimes representing at events and speaking on behalf of the organization.” For Rhys, his grandmother’s legacy taught him a profound lesson: “If one thing could be learned from my grandmother’s legacy, it’s that fame is an incredible opportunity to be revolutionary.”
Beyond HIV/AIDS advocacy, Rhys is a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability. He shared with the same outlet that he became vegan partly to reduce his carbon footprint, expressing a significant concern for the planet. “Climate change is a giant concern, and I hope will be for everyone, especially those in my generation and younger,” he stated, echoing Taylor’s fearless spirit in tackling pressing global issues, but adapted to the challenges of his own generation.
10. **Richard McKeown: The Youngest Grandchild Embracing a Private Path**Rounding out our look at Elizabeth Taylor’s ten remarkable grandchildren is Richard McKeown, the youngest of the esteemed lineage. Born in 2001, Richard is the son of Maria Burton, Taylor’s adopted daughter, and Tom McKeown. While his arrival completed the grand tapestry of Elizabeth Taylor’s family, his journey through childhood was notably complex, marked by personal challenges that led him to embrace a life far removed from the public glare that defined his famous family.
Details about Richard’s early life, as reported by Wales Online in 2013, reveal a tumultuous period. He was living with his mother, Maria Burton, when she filed a restraining order against his father, Tom McKeown. This family strife, including allegations of verbal abuse and counter-allegations, painted a difficult picture. In the wake of such a complicated upbringing, it is perhaps understandable that Richard McKeown has largely chosen to stay out of the public eye.
While information about Richard is scarce, his very existence as the youngest grandchild closes a chapter in Elizabeth Taylor’s extraordinary family story. His naming after his illustrious “grandfather,” Richard Burton, provides a subtle, yet poignant link to the epic romance that captivated the world. His chosen path of privacy highlights the diverse ways Elizabeth Taylor’s legacy is carried forward, demonstrating that the profound influence of Elizabeth Taylor is both expansive and deeply individual.
As we close this intimate look into the lives of Elizabeth Taylor’s ten extraordinary grandchildren, one undeniable truth emerges: her legacy is not just etched in film history or dazzling jewels; it lives vibrantly in each of them. From artists and entrepreneurs to social workers and dedicated activists, these remarkable individuals embody the very best of their iconic grandmother. They carry forward her legendary artistic sensibility, her groundbreaking spirit, and, most profoundly, her unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes, particularly the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. It’s clear that “Grandma Liz” not only showered them with love and unforgettable memories but also instilled in them a powerful sense of purpose. Her vision of a more compassionate and just world continues to be championed by her beloved family, ensuring that Elizabeth Taylor’s star, far from fading, shines brighter than ever through the incredible lives she inspired.
