A Hollywood Fairytale Wedding 34 Years Ago
Exactly 34 years ago, a construction worker and a global actress stunned the entertainment world by exchanging vows. On October 6, 1991, the legendary Elizabeth Taylor married blue-collar Larry Fortensky at Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch. This marked her eighth and final marriage. Their unexpected romance captivated tabloids, and though the union didn’t last, it ended with genuine affection.
Sparks Fly Behind Clinic Walls
Their story began in 1988 at the Betty Ford Clinic. Elizabeth, 56, returned for her second stay. Larry, 36, was a sun-baked construction worker with a troubled past, including multiple DUIs and a truck accident. He was in rehab courtesy of the Teamsters Union Insurance.
Elizabeth called him “Larry the Lion.” Larry later admitted, “I knew who she was, but I can’t say I watched her films.” Their connection grew during six weeks in treatment. He became protective, and she found his simplicity refreshing. Despite their age and world differences, they bonded fast.
A Romance Beyond Fame
Larry, a twice-divorced high school dropout, had lived a life untouched by stardom. He had never flown on a plane. Elizabeth admired his grounded nature. After leaving rehab, their romance blossomed. She often sent a limo to pick him up, though his remote home frequently trapped it in the mud. Even Larry’s family was unaware of the affair at first.
Hollywood Extravaganza at Neverland
Their wedding matched Hollywood glamour. Over 200 guests gathered at Neverland Ranch beneath a white gazebo. Carole Bayer Sager served as maid of honor, and celebrity hairstylist Jose Eber was best man.
Paparazzi chaos ensued: helicopters hovered, and one photographer parachuted onto the property before being caught. Inside, the atmosphere remained surreal, with Michael Jackson dancing on the floor and a guest list featuring Liza Minnelli, Eddie Murphy, Gregory Peck, and Nancy Reagan.
