Maria Burton Carson is the adopted daughter of Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor and actor Richard Burton, a life that placed her in the public eye from an early age. Born on August 1, 1961, she faced early health challenges, including congenital hip dysplasia, but her adoption brought love, care, and a unique childhood experience.
Growing up in a Hollywood celebrity family, Maria learned the importance of privacy and resilience, shaping her own identity apart from fame. Instead of pursuing acting, she developed a passion for fashion design career and engaged in quiet philanthropic work, reflecting her creativity and compassion. Her personal life and motherhood remain central to her story, showing a life guided by values over publicity.
Profile summary
| Category | Details |
| Full name | Maria Hélène Elisabeth Burton Carson |
| Date of birth | August 1, 1961 |
| Current Age | 64 years old |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inch (1.68 m) |
| Birthplace | Munich, Germany |
| Nationality | American |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Twice) |
| Children | 2 (Elizabeth Carson, Richard McKeown) |
| Current Residence | Idaho, USA |
| Social Media | Not publicly active |
| Profession | Fashion Designer, Philanthropist |
| Net Worth (2025) | Undisclosed, presumed high |
Who is Maria Burton?
Maria Burton Carson is the adopted daughter of Hollywood icon Elizabeth Taylor and actor Richard Burton. Born on August 1, 1961, in Munich, Germany, she entered the world facing significant challenges, including congenital hip dysplasia that required multiple surgeries. Despite these early obstacles, Maria grew up surrounded by fame, glamour, and the intense public eye, yet she always remained naturally private and grounded.
Unlike many children of celebrities, Maria never sought the spotlight for herself. Her story is less about red carpets and more about personal resilience, identity, and finding her own path amidst one of Hollywood’s most famous families. From a young age, she demonstrated a quiet strength that would define her life choices.
Early Life and Adoption
Maria Burton Carson’s early years were marked by both health struggles and dramatic life changes. At age three, she was adopted by Elizabeth Taylor, with Richard Burton later becoming her legal father. This adoption brought Maria into a world of immense wealth and attention, giving her a childhood unlike most children but filled with love and care from her adoptive parents. Despite the glamour, her early life was grounded by medical care, family support, and a structured environment designed to help her thrive. Taylor was determined to provide a nurturing home, shielding Maria from as much public scrutiny as possible while offering the opportunities she needed to grow.
Family Dynamics and Siblings
Maria grew up in a large, blended family with multiple siblings, including Michael Wilding Jr., Christopher Wilding, Liza Todd, Kate Burton, and Jessica Burton. Navigating these relationships required balance, especially under the constant media attention her family attracted. Despite the complex dynamics, Maria’s bonds with her siblings were often close and supportive. Her family life was shaped not only by love but also by the high-profile marriages and separations of her adoptive parents. While Taylor and Burton’s tumultuous relationship added unpredictability, Maria learned resilience, discretion, and the importance of emotional grounding from a young age.
Living in the Public Eye
Being the daughter of two legendary actors meant Maria’s life unfolded under constant observation. Paparazzi, tabloid stories, and media speculation were everyday realities, even during vacations or charity events. Yet, Elizabeth Taylor worked hard to protect Maria from the darker sides of fame, prioritizing her daughter’s well-being above publicity. Maria herself never sought attention. She maintained a low profile, rarely giving interviews or making public appearances. This early choice to value privacy shaped her into someone who values a quiet, intentional life over celebrity recognition.
Education and Growth
Education was carefully managed, with Elizabeth Taylor ensuring Maria had access to excellent learning opportunities. Despite the high-profile surroundings, Maria focused on personal growth and intellectual development rather than following her parents’ careers in acting. Her childhood also included creative exploration, allowing her to develop interests in art, design, and philanthropy. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for a life built on independence and meaningful pursuits, rather than fame.
Career and Philanthropy
Maria Burton Carson pursued a career in fashion design, a field that allowed her to express creativity while staying out of the public eye. Her work reflects an artistic sensibility and attention to detail reminiscent of her mother’s elegance but without the pressure of Hollywood fame. In addition, Maria has been involved in charitable work, supporting causes like children’s health and HIV/AIDS awareness. She has contributed quietly to the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, exemplifying a commitment to philanthropy that prioritizes impact over recognition.
Personal Life and Motherhood
Maria married Daniel Steve Carson in 1981, and together they had a daughter, Elizabeth Carson, named after her famous grandmother. Later, she married Tom McKeown, with whom she had a son, Richard, but the marriage ended amid legal disputes, including claims of domestic abuse. Throughout these personal challenges, Maria remained protective of her children and focused on creating a peaceful home life. Her parenting emphasizes privacy, stability, and love, contrasting sharply with the drama that surrounded her own upbringing.
Life After Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor’s death in 2011 marked a turning point for Maria. She grieved privately while navigating the inheritance of her mother’s legacy. Although details of Taylor’s estate remain confidential, Maria benefited from her mother’s considerable wealth while continuing to live a life away from Hollywood attention. This period reinforced Maria’s commitment to privacy and independence, as she sought to honor her mother’s legacy without becoming a public figure herself. She focused on family, creative pursuits, and maintaining a grounded lifestyle.
A Life of Privacy in Idaho
Today, Maria Burton Carson lives in Idaho, far from the glamour and media frenzy of Los Angeles or New York. She avoids social media and rarely appears at public events, choosing a quiet life that emphasizes family, wellness, and simplicity. Her Idaho lifestyle reflects her lifelong preference for privacy and meaningful experiences over celebrity recognition. Surrounded by nature and a sense of calm, Maria has created a life that aligns with her values and priorities.
Legacy and Identity
Maria Burton Carson’s legacy is defined not by fame but by resilience, discretion, and a strong sense of self. Growing up under the shadow of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, she chose a life that reflects personal strength, creative expression, and a dedication to family. Her story demonstrates that growing up in a Hollywood celebrity family doesn’t require following the same path. Maria’s life is a testament to carving one’s own identity, living intentionally, and honoring family legacy with grace rather than spectacle.
Conclusion
Maria Burton Carson embodies a unique balance of heritage and independence. From her challenging early life and adoption to a career in fashion design, philanthropy, and a private family life, she has forged a path defined by values rather than fame. Her story is inspiring, showing how one can grow up in extraordinary circumstances and still choose a grounded, meaningful, and private life. Maria Burton remains a remarkable example of resilience, discretion, and the quiet strength it takes to thrive in the shadow of legends.
FAQs
Is Maria active on social media?
No, Maria Burton Carson is not active on social media and prefers to maintain her privacy.
Who are Maria Burton Carson’s parents?
She was adopted by Hollywood icons Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.
Is Maria Burton Carson involved in acting?
No, she chose a career in fashion design and philanthropy instead of acting.
Does Maria Burton Carson have children?
Yes, she has two children: a daughter, Elizabeth Carson, and a son, Richard.
Where does Maria Burton Carson live?
She lives a private life in Idaho, away from the spotlight of Hollywood.
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