Elizabeth Taylor’s Personal Chef Reveals Heartwarming Insights About the Hollywood Legend
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Renowned Hollywood actress, activist, and style icon, Elizabeth Taylor, is celebrated for her glamour and talent on screen. However, her former private chef, Neil Zevnik, offers a unique perspective on the star behind closed doors. Zevnik had the privilege of serving as Taylor’s private chef from 1991 to 1999, and even continued to host special events for her until just before her passing in 2011. Through his close interactions with Taylor, Zevnik shares a touching insight that goes beyond the glitz and glam of Hollywood.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Zevnik fondly recalls Elizabeth Taylor as a remarkably generous individual whose giving nature left a lasting impression on him. Despite the extravagant lifestyle and high-profile events, Zevnik emphasizes that Taylor’s commitment to giving back stood out the most. He shares, “She was truly just such a giving person, and that’s what I mostly, with all the wild and crazy stuff that we did over the years, that’s the thing that stayed with me the most, is that in every aspect of her life, she was a giving person, and that, to me, is one of the most important things in life.”
One poignant example Zevnik shares of Taylor’s generosity is her unwavering support for her longtime publicist, Chen Sam, during her battle with terminal cancer. Taylor ensured Sam received the best care possible, insisting she stay at her home with round-the-clock nursing care until her passing. This act of compassion exemplifies Taylor’s caring nature that extended beyond her immediate circle to those in need.
Beyond her philanthropic gestures, Taylor’s personal interactions with Zevnik reflected her thoughtfulness and kindness. Recounting a humorous incident where Taylor gifted him a wine cellar too large for his home, Zevnik chuckles, “I still have the 360-bottle wine cellar that is the size of a large armoire, that doesn’t fit through the doors of my house, so it’s in the garage, but it has lots of wine in it.” This anecdote highlights Taylor’s sincerity in wanting to make those around her happy.
Not only was Taylor a generous gift-giver, but she also cherished the act of both giving and receiving presents. Zevnik recalls how she took a personal interest in selecting gifts for her loved ones, showing a genuine enthusiasm for bringing joy to others. Her attention to detail and genuine thoughtfulness in gift-giving mirrored her generosity in all aspects of her life.
Despite her fame and success, Taylor remained grounded in her devotion to family and friends. Zevnik reflects on her loyalty and down-to-earth nature, stating, “She was, as much as she could be, just a regular person in her daily life.” This personal touch and prioritization of relationships underscore Taylor’s values beyond her public persona.
In addition to her charitable endeavours and personal connections, Taylor’s legacy is also marked by her remarkable work in AIDS activism. While celebrated as a cultural icon, Taylor’s compassionate and considerate nature towards others is a lesser-known aspect of her character. Zevnik’s insights offer a glimpse into the genuine and caring individual behind the glimmering Hollywood facade.
As the world remembers Elizabeth Taylor for her timeless beauty and talent on screen, Neil Zevnik’s revelations shed light on a different facet of the legendary actress. Through his experiences as her private chef, Zevnik unveils a side of Taylor brimming with warmth, generosity, and empathy, leaving an enduring legacy that transcends the silver screen.
In conclusion, Elizabeth Taylor’s legacy goes beyond her cinematic achievements, encompassing a legacy of compassion and kindness that continues to inspire. Neil Zevnik’s intimate anecdotes offer a heartfelt tribute to the Hollywood icon, painting a picture of a woman whose generosity knew no bounds. Elizabeth Taylor’s impact on those around her serves as a reminder of the power of small acts of kindness and the profound influence of a giving heart.