Maria Burton Carson, the adopted daughter of the legendary actress Elizabeth Taylor, has lived a life that straddles the worlds of Hollywood glamour and quiet resilience. Despite being born into a world of immense fame, she has consciously chosen a life of privacy, carving out a path distinctly her own.
A Hollywood Adoption That Made Headlines
Born on August 1, 1961, in Germany, Maria Burton Carson was adopted in 1964 by Elizabeth Taylor and her then-husband, Richard Burton. At just three years old, Maria found herself at the heart of one of the most famous families in Hollywood. The Burtons’ immense star power turned her adoption into a public spectacle, making Maria the subject of instant media attention.
Growing up as the daughter of Elizabeth Taylor came with immense privileges—lavish homes, luxurious vacations, and a front-row seat to the dazzling world of Hollywood. But it also meant navigating the complexities of being the child of one of the most scrutinized stars in the world. Despite the challenges, Taylor’s deep devotion to her children ensured that Maria grew up in a loving and supportive household, alongside her famous mother’s other children.
Choosing Privacy Over Stardom
Unlike many celebrity children who embrace the limelight, Maria Burton Carson took a different route. She deliberately distanced herself from Hollywood’s glare, preferring a life of normalcy away from the cameras. While her upbringing was marked by public curiosity, Maria embraced privacy, making only rare public appearances over the years.
Her personal life has remained mostly out of the public eye, but it is known that she has been married and has children of her own. As of 2025, at the age of 64, Maria continues to prioritize family over fame. While her siblings and extended family members have pursued entertainment and business ventures, she has remained steadfast in keeping her personal affairs private.
Honoring Elizabeth Taylor’s Legacy
The passing of Elizabeth Taylor in 2011 was a profound moment for Maria. Taylor, known for her extraordinary humanitarian efforts, left behind a powerful legacy, particularly her contributions to AIDS advocacy. In 1991, she founded The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF), an organization dedicated to fighting the disease.
Maria Burton Carson has played a role in preserving her mother’s legacy, contributing to ETAF’s initiatives in various capacities. While she has never actively sought the spotlight, she has honored Taylor’s humanitarian work, ensuring that her mother’s compassion and activism continue to impact lives worldwide.
Net Worth and Financial Standing
Though Maria Burton Carson has maintained a private life, her association with one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures suggests a comfortable financial standing. Elizabeth Taylor’s estate, estimated to be worth over $600 million at the time of her passing, was divided among her children, grandchildren, and charities. As one of her heirs, Maria likely inherited a portion of this wealth, though the exact details remain undisclosed. However, rather than leveraging her family’s fame for personal gain, she has chosen a path of quiet dignity and independence.
A Life Lived on Her Own Terms
Maria Burton Carson’s story is one of balance—balancing the weight of a famous lineage with the desire for an ordinary life. While she will always be linked to Elizabeth Taylor’s legacy, she has proven that one can honor their roots while forging their own path. Her decision to stay out of the public eye speaks to her strength and determination to live life on her own terms.
In an era where celebrity status is often sought after, Maria’s journey is a refreshing reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary lives are those lived away from the spotlight.