Ali MacGraw: Her Life After "Love Story" & Where She Is Now
Has time truly faded the luminous glow of Hollywood's most unforgettable faces? For Ali MacGraw, the answer is a resounding no, as her enduring beauty and remarkable life story continue to captivate audiences decades after she first graced the silver screen.
Born Elizabeth Alice MacGraw on April 1, 1939, in New York City, the actress who would become synonymous with 1970s cinema embarked on a journey that would take her from the hallowed halls of academia to the glittering heights of Hollywood and, ultimately, to a life lived on her own terms. Her parents, both artists, nurtured her creative spirit, initially guiding her toward a career in art. She even started her college life at Wellesley College, however, destiny had other plans, setting the stage for a transformative career in the world of glamour and drama.
| Full Name | Elizabeth Alice MacGraw |
| Date of Birth | April 1, 1939 |
| Place of Birth | New York City, New York, USA |
| Occupation | Actress, Model, Author |
| Years Active | 1968Present |
| Known for | Love Story, Goodbye, Columbus, The Getaway |
| Awards | Golden Globe Award for Most Promising Newcomer (1970) |
| Marriages | Robin Hoen (m. 1961; div. 1962), Robert Evans (m. 1969; div. 1972), Steve McQueen (m. 1973; div. 1978) |
| Children | Josh Evans |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $10 million (as of recent reports) |
| Notable Relatives | Josh Evans (Son) |
| Residence | Tesuque, New Mexico |
| Reference | Wikipedia |
The year 1970 marked a pivotal moment in MacGraw's career. It was the year she starred opposite Ryan O'Neal in the romantic drama Love Story, a film that would catapult her to international fame. Portraying the character of Jennifer Cavilleri, she became an instant icon, embodying a blend of vulnerability, intelligence, and timeless beauty that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. The film's success was a cultural phenomenon, earning a staggering $130 million at the box office, an amount equivalent to approximately a billion dollars today, solidifying MacGraw's place in cinematic history. The film also earned her an Academy Award nomination, further cementing her status as a rising star.
The actress's ascent to stardom, however, was not without its personal trials. In her early twenties, MacGraw made a difficult choice, admitting to having an abortion when the procedure was illegal, a testament to the challenges and complexities she faced. During her marriage to Steve McQueen, she also experienced a miscarriage, a deeply personal tragedy that added another layer to her life's narrative.
In 1969, prior to her breakthrough role in Love Story, MacGraw made her initial foray into acting with a role in Goodbye, Columbus. Her performance earned her the Golden Globe Award for Most Promising Newcomer, setting the stage for her future success. The following year, her portrayal of Jennifer Cavilleri in Love Story not only brought her global recognition but also established her as a style icon, with her signature long, brunette hair and chic wardrobe becoming highly emulated.
Yet, after her rise to fame, MacGraw's life took an unexpected turn. She made the decision to step away from the relentless glare of Hollywood. She married Robert Evans, later Steve McQueen and, after the demise of her marriage with McQueen, she left Hollywood, eventually finding solace and a new chapter in her life. She returned to the screen in the 1980s, mostly for TV projects.
MacGraw, a true Hollywood star in the 1970s, eventually made a choice to step away from the limelight for six years following her marriage to Steve McQueen. She divorced McQueen in 1978, she returned to the screen but mostly for television projects.
The actress's life has been marked by a series of significant relationships. She was first married to Robin Hoen, followed by a marriage to Robert Evans, with whom she had a son, Josh Evans. Josh Evans, a multifaceted individual, is a screenwriter, director, and actor. Later, MacGraw married Steve McQueen, another iconic figure in Hollywood. The depth and breadth of her personal life are as captivating as her professional achievements, adding a dimension of complexity to her public persona.
Ali MacGraw's decision to leave the bustling city of Los Angeles and retreat to the quaint village of Tesuque, New Mexico, about 10 miles north of Santa Fe, was a deliberate choice. It was a choice to prioritize privacy and dedicate herself to creative pursuits. This shift in lifestyle, which began in 1990, has allowed her to focus on her passions, and maintain a sense of serenity away from the clamor of Hollywood. Two decades later she left California for New Mexico, where she still lives, largely.
MacGraw's influence extends beyond her acting career. She has also been recognized for her style and grace. She is also a mother and grandmother. Her elegant transition to silver locks, a change that beautifully complements her timeless elegance, is a testament to her ability to evolve while retaining her iconic status. It's a transformation that reflects not just physical changes but a deeper understanding of self and a willingness to embrace new chapters in life.
In 1991, MacGraw published her autobiography, "Moving Pictures," offering readers an intimate look into the making of Love Story and the whirlwind of her life. The book offers insights into the challenges and triumphs she experienced, further enhancing her status as a symbol of resilience and authenticity. MacGraw never expected Love Story to become such a worldwide phenomenon.
The film's legacy was recently revisited with the passing of her co-star, Ryan O'Neal, in 2023. MacGraw remembered O'Neal as "charming and funny," underscoring the enduring bonds formed during the creation of the iconic film. The actresss memory of her co-star is a testament to the lasting impact of the film and the relationships forged on set.
In a recent sighting, at the age of 84, MacGraw looked fabulous while enjoying dinner at a Mexican restaurant with her friends, demonstrating her sustained elegance and vitality.
While her filmography may not be extensive, the impact of her work remains. Her contributions to cinema and her personal journey continue to inspire. Her life, as a whole, shows us that it is possible to navigate the complexities of life, maintaining grace and resilience.
Interestingly, there was a point where Ali MacGraw was considered for a role in the popular series Breaking Bad. She was slated to play herself in the episode "Grey Matter" as a guest at a birthday party, but her appearance was ultimately cut from the final version. This brief connection highlights her continued relevance in the entertainment industry.
MacGraw's story is not just about movies and fame; it is also about choices, self-discovery, and the courage to define one's path. The actress is one of the most stunning and talented actresses of Hollywood's golden age, captivated audiences with her beauty and heartfelt performances in films like Love Story. The world continues to watch, captivated, as she embraces her journey with the same unwavering spirit that defined her iconic roles.
As the world celebrates Valentine's Day, the Lowell celebrates with "Love Story" actress Ali MacGraw.
The actress who was originally on the path to an art career at Wellesley College, her life story is a testament to her ability to adapt. She has now made a stunning transition to silver locks that beautifully complement her timeless elegance.
As the world remembers the stars of yesteryear, it is a reminder that their impact has endured. The story of Ali MacGraw, from Hollywood starlet to a woman of poise, grace, and creative pursuits, continues to be written.
