Ali MacGraw broke into Hollywood in 1970 starring alongside Ryan O'Neal in the beloved romantic drama, Love Story.
The actress was nominated for an Oscar, won a Golden Globe, and was voted the top female film star in the world in 1972. But, after a whirlwind relationship with one of the world's biggest action stars, Ali stepped away from Hollywood.
Keep reading to learn more about the '70s icon and where she is now.
© Getty ImagesRyan O'Neal and Ali MacGraw in a promotional still for Love Story, directed by Arthur Hiller, 1970.
Ali MacGraw's blockbuster fame
After being raised in the suburbs of New York City, Ali started working at Harper's Bazaar magazine as a photographic assistant before starting her acting career. Her first leading role was in 1969's Goodbye, Columbus.
In 1970, she starred in a decade-defining movie Love Story, which grossed some $173 million during its theatrical run and taught us the (highly controversial) lesson: "Love means never having to say you're sorry." Ali earned an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of the working-class music student Jennifer Cavilleri.
© Getty ImagesSteve McQueen and Ali MacGraw on the set of "The Getaway".
Falling in love with Steve McQueen
In 1972, Ali was honored at Grauman's Chinese Theatre with an engraving of her handprints after starring in just three films. Her rise was unstoppable. That same year, she appeared in the action thriller The Getaway alongside action star Steve McQueen.
Ali and Steve embarked on a public affair after falling in love on set and while she was still in a relationship with her husband of three years, Robert Evans. The actress and Robert shared a son together, Josh Evans. After Ali divorced Robert in 1973, she and Steve solidified their relationship.
© Getty ImagesSteve McQueen and his wife Ali MacGraw attend a party in honour of James Cagney.
Ali MacGraw and Steve McQueen's short-lived relationship
In the 48 years since Ali and Steve divorced, the actress has never remarried. But, she dated a slew of famous stars, from Warren Beatty to Mickey Raphael. Due to her affair with Steve and her other publicized relationships, the actress withdrew from the limelight, appearing in a string of smaller films throughout the '80s and '90s. Her last film credit was in 1999.
In her 1991 autobiography Moving Pictures, Ali chronicled her rapid rise to fame and her struggles with alcohol and sex addiction. In 1985, the actress checked into the Betty Ford Clinic and has been sober ever since.
© Getty ImagesAli MacGraw strikes a playful, barefoot pose in an oversized black cardigan against a studio backdrop.
Ali's other relationships and struggles with addiction
In the 48 years since Ali and Steve divorced, the actress has never remarried. But, she dated a slew of famous stars, from Warren Beatty to Mickey Raphael. Due to her affair with Steve and her other publicized relationships, the actress withdrew from the limelight, appearing in a string of smaller films throughout the '80s and '90s. Her last film credit was in 1999.
In her 1991 autobiography Moving Pictures, Ali chronicled her rapid rise to fame and her struggles with alcohol and sex addiction. In 1985, the actress checked into the Betty Ford Clinic and has been sober ever since.
© Getty ImagesAli MacGraw and a friend hold a moon bear plush toy at Animals Asia: Kindness in Action in Los Angeles
Ali MacGraw's life at 87
Since her days of Hollywood fame, Ali, now 87, lives a quiet life in New Mexico, focusing her energy on her community, animal welfare and yoga. "I used to re-write the past, fantasize about the future," she told People. "But now, I believe in living fully to the very best of my ability. I feel very blessed."
