Elizabeth Taylor and Queen Elizabeth II: Their Fabled Meetings

Introduction

Elizabeth Taylor, the renowned British-American actress and entrepreneur, had a number of notable encounters with the late Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom. These meetings were not only significant for their personal and historical importance, but also for the glamorous backdrop that surrounded them. Let's delve into the details of these fascinating interactions and explore the intriguing stories behind each meeting.

Notable Encounters with the Queen

One of the most memorable instances was in 1987 when Elizabeth Taylor was honored with the title of Dame Elizabeth Taylor. This distinguished honor was bestowed upon her in recognition of her contributions to the arts and society. The title of Dame is a high honor in the United Kingdom, and Taylor's receipt of it was a testament to her enduring impact on the entertainment industry and her relationship with the monarchy.

Queen Elizabeth II at Cinema Screenings

Queen Elizabeth II was known to attend private screenings of films at Buckingham Palace on occasion. One particularly remarkable meeting took place when the Queen watched a private screening of Taming of the Shrew in the Palace's movie theater. She was accompanied by Elizabeth Taylor and her then husband, Richard Burton. This event provides a glimpse into the close personal relationship that developed between the two women. Though the exact reason for the Queen's decision to screen the film in the palace is not widely documented, it could have been due to the Queen's busy schedule or her desire to enjoy a private viewing without the public gaze.

Meeting with Princess Margaret

Elizabeth Taylor's encounters with the royal family did not exclude Princess Margaret, who was both a contemporary and a friend. One such anecdote from Los Angeles highlights a particularly memorable interaction. On a visit, Taylor was spotted wearing her famous 69-carat diamond ring from Richard Burton. When Princess Margaret noticed the ring, she remarked with a touch of disdain, "How vulgar." Taylor, undeterred by the Queen's cousin's comment, confidently replied, "The only vulgar diamond, my dear, is the one bigger than yours!"

A Commemorative Title

Elizabeth Taylor's meeting with the Queen was not just personal but also ceremonial. She received the title of Dame Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor DBE, which stands for Dame Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. The DBE is one of the highest honours within the UK's honours system, and it reflects the deep respect and admiration that the Queen held for Taylor.

Personal Reflections on the Queen

Reflecting on these meetings with the Queen, Elizabeth Taylor herself shared some poignant insights. As a child, her family was privy to her meetings with the royals. According to Taylor's own words, she once said, "Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, the Rule of the British Empire, wipes her royal bum like every other human being." This statement gives a unique perspective, reminding us that despite her royal status, Queen Elizabeth II was very much a human being like any other.

Enduring Legacy

The meetings between Elizabeth Taylor and Queen Elizabeth II serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of both women. Their interactions were marked by mutual respect, admiration, and a shared sense of humility and humanity. These encounters witnessed not only the blending of two powerful figures but also the melting of social and historical barriers.

In conclusion, the encounters between Elizabeth Taylor and Queen Elizabeth II were significant for multiple reasons—personal, historical, and social. Through these interactions, we see a fascinating glimpse into the relationships between Hollywood royalty and the British monarchy, and the enduring legacy of these iconic figures.