Ali MacGraw opted to step back from her career for Steve McQueen.

Ali MacGraw, once a dominant figure in Hollywood, skyrocketed to superstardom almost instantly. Her ascent to fame was rapid, but her exit from the spotlight was just as quick. Now, at 84 years old, she has stepped away from the entertainment industry to find tranquility in a quaint, secluded town. Her graceful aging, highlighted by her silver hair, embodies a woman who has embraced her life’s journey and discovered contentment beyond the fame and wealth that once defined her.

Elizabeth Alice MacGraw, born on April 1, 1939, in Pound Ridge, New York, hailed from an artistic family. Her mother, Frances, was a creative soul, balancing roles as an artist and a teacher. Her father, Richard, also pursued art but bore the emotional wounds of a difficult childhood in an orphanage. Richard’s troubled past often surfaced as anger, affecting family dynamics. Ali shared that her father never forgave his biological parents for abandoning him, and much of his adult life was spent trying to suppress his fury.

Amidst the emotional struggles in their household, Ali and her brother, Richard Jr., were raised in a somewhat unconventional environment. Financial resources were limited, and they resided on a wilderness preserve in Pound Ridge, sharing their home with an elderly couple. This arrangement offered little privacy, which Ali later described as intolerable. To sustain the family, her mother undertook various commercial art projects, while her father faced challenges in selling his paintings. His growing frustration often erupted, with her brother bearing the brunt of his anger. Ali recalls the deep emotional wounds inflicted by witnessing her father’s violent outbursts.

Despite these familial challenges, Ali was resolute in building a creative career for herself. She secured a scholarship to the esteemed Rosemary Hall, a preparatory school, and subsequently attended Wellesley College in Massachusetts. By 22, Ali relocated to New York City, where she began her career as an assistant editor at Harper’s Bazaar. This period was marked by excitement and exploration for the young Ali, who immersed herself in the dynamic world of fashion.

Her initial foray into the fashion industry was modest, but her striking beauty soon caught the attention of photographer Melvin Sokolsky. He encouraged her to shift from behind the camera to being in front of it, propelling Ali’s modeling career forward. She graced magazine covers and featured in television commercials, with her natural beauty and elegance making her a highly sought-after model. This visibility naturally led to her transition into acting.

Ali made her acting debut in the 1968 film A Lovely Way to Die, but it was her subsequent role in Goodbye, Columbus (1969) that propelled her to stardom. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer. However, it was her portrayal of Jenny in the 1970 film Love Story that cemented her status as a Hollywood icon. Playing a working-class college student, Ali delivered a heartfelt performance that resonated with audiences worldwide. The film became a blockbuster hit, earning her an Academy Award nomination and a second Golden Globe.

Despite her rising fame, Ali’s personal life was equally tumultuous. She married film producer Robert Evans in 1969, and the couple welcomed their son, Josh, two years later. However, their marriage was short-lived. During the filming of The Getaway in 1972, Ali met actor Steve McQueen, leading to an affair. Ali eventually left Evans to be with McQueen, relocating to Malibu with her young son.

While her relationship with McQueen was intense, it was also fraught with challenges. McQueen, who had his own troubled history, was often controlling and possessive. He disapproved of Ali maintaining her career and insisted she give up work to stay at home. Their marriage was plagued by McQueen’s demands and jealousy, ultimately leading to their divorce in 1978.

After her separation from McQueen, Ali’s life began to decline. She battled substance abuse, arriving on the set of the film Convoy both intoxicated and under the influence. Although she managed to overcome her addiction, her career suffered. Several of her films during this period were unsuccessful, leaving the once-promising Hollywood star at a pivotal crossroads.

Eventually, Ali chose to leave Hollywood behind and pursue a different path. She ventured into interior design and took on occasional acting roles, including appearances in the television miniseries The Winds of War (1983) and China Rose (1985). However, by the mid-1980s, Ali’s life had reached a low point. She felt lost and grappled with feelings of inadequacy, further exacerbated by her alcohol addiction.

In 1986, Ali made the brave decision to enter the Betty Ford Clinic, where she spent 30 days undergoing therapy. Her son, Josh, then 15 years old, witnessed his mother’s struggles and provided unwavering support throughout her recovery. Ali emerged from the clinic stronger and more determined to lead a healthier life.

Tragedy struck again in 1993 when a wildfire destroyed Ali’s home in California. This loss led her to move to Tesuque, a small village near Santa Fe, New Mexico. In her new residence, Ali found peace and a sense of community. Her neighbors viewed her not as a former Hollywood star but as a cherished member of the town who contributed through volunteer work, including her participation in the annual International Folk Art Market.

Although Ali stepped away from acting, she briefly returned to the stage in 2006, reuniting with her Love Story co-star Ryan O’Neal in the Broadway adaptation of the Danish film Festen. Beyond this short stint, Ali remained out of the public eye, dedicating her energy to causes she was passionate about, such as animal rights and producing yoga videos.

Even as she enjoys her serene life in New Mexico, Ali stays open to new experiences. In a 2019 interview, she expressed her continuous curiosity and desire to remain creative. “I’m not happy when I’m not doing something creative,” she remarked, highlighting the fulfillment she derives from her various pursuits.

Her son, Josh Evans, has followed in her footsteps, establishing a successful career as both an actor and director. Ali takes pride in her son and treasures the close bond they share. She often speaks warmly of her family and the happiness they bring her, especially her grandson, Jackson, born in 2010.

Ali MacGraw’s transition from a Hollywood star to a peaceful life in New Mexico showcases her resilience and strength. She has navigated personal and professional hardships, emerging as a woman who prioritizes creativity, community, and family over fame. Her story is inspiring, illustrating that life can take unexpected paths, but with grace and determination, one can find peace and fulfillment.

As Ali MacGraw reflects on her life today, she embraces the tranquility and wisdom that come with age. Far removed from Hollywood’s pressures, she has built a life rich with purpose, creativity, and community involvement. Her journey, marked by both struggles and triumphs, has shaped her into a woman who values authenticity and simplicity over fame. Surrounded by family and the natural beauty of her New Mexico home, Ali remains curious and open to new experiences. Her legacy extends beyond Hollywood stardom to one of resilience, transformation, and inner peace.