Ali MacGraw became a Hollywood sensation virtually overnight, but just as quickly as she rose to stardom, she faded from the spotlight. Now 85 years old, Ali lives quietly in a small, remote town, embracing her natural gray hair and enjoying a graceful, peaceful life far from the cameras. Born Elizabeth Alice MacGraw on April 1, 1939, in Pound Ridge, New York, she was the daughter of artists.
Her mother, Frances, worked as an artist and teacher, while her father, Richard MacGraw, was also an artist, though he struggled with personal demons rooted in a traumatic childhood. He had grown up in an orphanage and ran away at 16 to work at sea before later studying art in Germany. Despite his talents, he was burdened by anger and resentment toward his parents, which spilled over into his family life. Ali’s childhood was marked by financial struggles and an often tense home environment. Her father’s frustration frequently resulted in anger directed at her younger brother, Richard Jr., while her mother did her best to support the family through commercial art assignments.
Despite her difficult upbringing, Ali pursued a creative career. She attended Rosemary Hall on scholarship and later graduated from Wellesley College in Massachusetts. At 22, she moved to New York City and began working as an assistant editor at Harper’s Bazaar, later advancing to stylist thanks to her dedication and work ethic. Eventually, her natural beauty caught the attention of fashion photographer Melvin Sokolsky, which led to a successful modeling career. Appearing on magazine covers and in television commercials soon opened doors for her in Hollywood.
Her acting debut came in the 1968 film “A Lovely Way to Die,” but it was her role in “Goodbye, Columbus” (1969) that earned her a Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer. Then, in 1970, Ali starred alongside Ryan O’Neal in the romantic drama “Love Story,” which became a massive box office hit and earned her an Academy Award nomination. The film’s success made her one of Hollywood’s brightest stars almost overnight. During this time, she married Paramount Pictures executive Robert Evans, and they had a son together, Josh Evans.
However, Ali’s personal life soon took a dramatic turn. She met actor Steve McQueen while filming “The Getaway,” and the two quickly fell in love. She left Evans for McQueen, moving in with him in Malibu along with her young son. At first, she was captivated by McQueen’s rebellious spirit and charm, but she soon discovered his darker side. Scarred by his troubled childhood, McQueen was deeply mistrustful and controlling. He expected Ali to give up her career, stay home, and be the traditional wife he wanted. Over time, his jealousy and demands wore her down. She eventually agreed to a prenuptial agreement and, when they divorced in 1978, walked away without any of his fortune.
Following her marriage to McQueen, Ali struggled both personally and professionally. Her once-promising acting career faltered, with films like “Players” (1979) and “Just Tell Me What You Want” (1980) failing at the box office. She battled alcoholism and checked herself into the Betty Ford Clinic in 1986, determined to turn her life around. Her son, Josh, was only 15 at the time and witnessed his mother’s painful struggle. After recovering, Ali focused on rebuilding her life. In 1993, she lost her home to a wildfire in California, prompting her move to Tesuque, a small village near Santa Fe, New Mexico. There, she found peace and community, dedicating herself to volunteer work, including supporting the International Folk Art Market in Santa Fe.
Though she stepped away from Hollywood, Ali made a brief return to the stage in 2006, reuniting with Ryan O’Neal in the Broadway play “Festen.” She also produced yoga videos and became an advocate for animal rights. Despite leaving acting behind, her love for creativity never faded, and she remains open to new opportunities. Meanwhile, her son Josh Evans has carved out a successful career of his own as an actor and director. Best known for roles in films like “Born on the Fourth of July” and “The Doors,” Josh has also directed several movies, including “Death in the Desert” (2015).
Ali MacGraw may have sacrificed her Hollywood career for love, but she found peace and purpose in her later years. She maintains a close relationship with her son, Josh, and treasures time with her family, including her grandson. Despite the ups and downs of her life, Ali remains optimistic, curious, and deeply connected to the things she loves. Her story is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the enduring power of family.
