Kim Kardashian Reflects on the Lasting Influence of Elizabeth Taylor in Life and Advocacy

Kim Kardashian has long held a fascination for the timeless elegance and resilience of old Hollywood actresses, particularly the legendary Elizabeth Taylor. In a recent discussion, Kardashian reflected on her admiration for Taylor, revealing how the iconic star has influenced her life and advocacy work.

A Meeting That Almost Happened

Kardashian had the unique opportunity to conduct the last published interview with Taylor for Harper's Bazaar before the actress passed away in 2011. Originally intended to meet for tea, the two connected over the phone due to Taylor's illness. During their conversation, Kardashian was struck by Taylor's understanding of her own power and beauty. "We were talking about fighting for people," she recalls, emphasizing Taylor's commitment to using her platform for good.

The life of Elizabeth Taylor-her Oscar-winning performances, tumultuous romances, and philanthropic efforts-are explored in the new BBC documentary series Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar, which Kardashian serves as an executive producer. "There's so many young people I want to remind or even teach them about who she is," Kardashian stated, underscoring her desire to keep Taylor's legacy alive.

An Unapologetic Love for Life

Born in 1932, Taylor was a fixture in the public eye from a young age, with her breakout role in National Velvet at just 12 years old. She famously became the first actress to sign a million-dollar contract for a single film, Cleopatra, and her passionate relationship with co-star Richard Burton drew relentless media attention. Kardashian admires Taylor's openness about her love life, noting, "She was very honest about her love life... she loved love."

Taylor's public persona extended beyond the silver screen; in the 1980s, she became a powerful advocate for AIDS awareness. Kardashian is particularly moved by Taylor's efforts to support those in need, stating, "What really moved me [is] how she would fight for people that were voiceless." Taylor co-founded the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) and played a pivotal role in advocating for AIDS research and awareness during a time when many shied away from the topic.

Inspiring Activism and Personal Connection

Kardashian draws parallels between Taylor's activism and her own efforts in prison reform. In 2018, Kardashian famously met with former President Donald Trump to advocate for the release of Alice Johnson, a grandmother who had been imprisoned for over 20 years. She said, "I know that when I do prison reform work... you just think of her."

The influence of Taylor extends to Kardashian's personal life as well. She fondly remembers receiving a bottle of Taylor's signature White Diamonds perfume, saying, "I will cherish that forever." Taylor's iconic jewelry collection, much of which was named after her relationships, has also inspired Kardashian's own collection.

A Legacy of Glamour and Activism

As Kardashian prepares for the release of the documentary series, she expresses pride in the intergenerational appeal of Taylor's story. "My sisters want to watch it, my mom and my grandma. So that makes me really proud," she shared. She hopes that viewers will recognize Taylor as not only a glamorous actress but also a strong advocate for important causes.

In Kardashian's eyes, Elizabeth Taylor embodied a blend of glamour, struggle, and activism that remains relevant today. "She wanted to do the right thing," Kardashian said, emphasizing her commitment to authenticity and social responsibility. As the documentary unfolds, Kardashian aims to remind audiences of Taylor's lasting impact on both Hollywood and the world of activism.