The 42nd Academy Awards in 1970 was a night of unparalleled glamour, with Hollywood’s biggest stars shining brightly. Yet, none could outshine the iconic Elizabeth Taylor, who captivated everyone with her elegance, her stunning gown, and the world-famous diamond glittering around her neck. But behind the beauty and spectacle lay a bittersweet undercurrent—a poignant moment of loss that added depth to the evening’s splendor.
Looking back, the Oscars of 1970 feel like a portal to an era of unmatched grace and charm. The ceremony, held at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles, was historic for many reasons. It was the first Academy Awards to be broadcast internationally via satellite, bringing Hollywood’s magic to millions worldwide.
The evening featured unforgettable moments, including Cary Grant’s emotional acceptance of the Academy Honorary Award and John Wayne’s heartfelt speech after winning Best Actor for True Grit. While Wayne’s victory was celebrated, it also sparked controversy, with many arguing that Dustin Hoffman’s groundbreaking performance in Midnight Cowboy was unfairly overlooked.
Amid these monumental moments, Elizabeth Taylor emerged as the evening’s undisputed star. At just 38, Taylor epitomized Hollywood glamour, her stunning cornflower blue gown shimmering under the lights. The gown, designed by Edith Head, was a masterpiece, carefully tailored to complement Taylor’s mesmerizing violet eyes. Her look was crowned by the Taylor-Burton Diamond, a dazzling 69-carat gem gifted to her by her husband, Richard Burton. This breathtaking jewel wasn’t just an accessory; it was a testament to their larger-than-life love story.
The diamond itself had a dramatic history. Discovered in 1966 at a South African mine, it weighed 241 carats in its rough form before being cut down to its final, magnificent size. Burton, determined to secure it for Taylor, waged an intense bidding war, ultimately paying $1.1 million to acquire it. He famously declared, “I wanted that diamond because it is incomparably lovely … and it should be on the loveliest woman in the world.”
As Taylor walked the red carpet, her beauty left the crowd awestruck. Her gown’s plunging neckline perfectly framed the dazzling diamond, and her natural elegance radiated an otherworldly charm. Even comedian Bob Hope couldn’t resist joking, quipping, “I know Miss Taylor is here. I saw a Brinks truck parked outside.”
Behind the scenes, however, not all was as perfect as it appeared. Taylor’s husband, Richard Burton, was up for Best Actor that night, and his loss to John Wayne marked his sixth unsuccessful nomination. The defeat weighed heavily on Taylor, who broke down in tears backstage. Witnesses recounted how her makeup artist worked quickly to refresh her look before she stepped onto the stage to present the award for Best Picture. Her composure faltered briefly as she fought to mask her disappointment, but her professionalism carried her through.
The night didn’t end there. The after-party saw Taylor and Burton surrounded by a galaxy of stars and photographers, their table the focal point of the evening. Burton later reflected in his diary on the overwhelming attention they received, noting how Taylor’s presence eclipsed even other major celebrities.
The magic of that night remains etched in the annals of Hollywood history. Elizabeth Taylor’s radiance, combined with her grace and humanity, reminded everyone why she was not just a star but an icon. Her ability to captivate while carrying the weight of personal heartbreak epitomized her extraordinary spirit.
As the curtains fell on the 1970 Oscars, one truth stood out—Elizabeth Taylor wasn’t just a part of Hollywood’s golden age; she was its very embodiment. Her beauty, talent, and unyielding strength continue to inspire, making her a timeless symbol of grace and resilience. Sharing her story feels like celebrating a piece of history, a reminder of an era when stars truly shone brightest.