In the golden era of Hollywood, Elizabeth Taylor emerged as one of its brightest stars. Behind her journey to stardom, there was an unsung heroine, her mother Sara Sothern. Their relationship, beyond the limelight, is a heartwarming testament to the enduring bond between a mother and her daughter.
Sara Sothern, born Sara Viola Warmbrodt, was a successful stage actress before she married Francis Lenn Taylor, an art dealer. Their union brought two children into the world, Howard and Elizabeth. From the moment Elizabeth was born in 1932, it was apparent to Sara that her daughter was destined for greatness.
Retiring from her acting career, Sara invested her time and energy into nurturing Elizabeth’s potential. She recognized Elizabeth’s natural charisma and striking beauty early on and she introduced her daughter to the world of performing arts. From ballet to acting, Elizabeth was immersed in an environment that allowed her talent to bloom under her mother’s watchful eye.
However, the relationship between Sara and Elizabeth was not merely that of a manager guiding her protégé. It was a deep, loving bond between a mother and her child. Sara was known to be a protective force in Elizabeth’s life, ensuring her young starlet balanced her burgeoning career with the joys and lessons of a normal childhood.
Even as Elizabeth’s fame skyrocketed, Sara remained a grounding influence. She emphasized the importance of humility, kindness, and hard work. These values were deeply instilled in Elizabeth and became hallmarks of her character both on and off the screen.
As Elizabeth transitioned from a child star to a respected actress, Sara’s role subtly shifted as well. She became a pillar of support, providing guidance and wisdom during Elizabeth’s most challenging moments. Elizabeth often spoke warmly of her mother’s influence, expressing gratitude for the resilience and work ethic Sara had instilled in her.
Sara’s influence on Elizabeth extended well into her daughter’s adulthood. She was Elizabeth’s confidante, advisor, and cheerleader, always present and always supportive. Their relationship was a poignant reminder of the strength of familial love amid the pressures of stardom.
Here are some heartwarming photographs of Elizabeth Taylor and her mother, Sara Sothern, that beautifully encapsulate their relationship over the years. From childhood moments of laughter to times of thoughtful discussion, each photograph paints a vivid picture of their enduring relationship.