Ali MacGraw, born Elizabeth Alice MacGraw on April 1, 1939, in Pound Ridge, New York, is a former American actress, animal rights activist, and author.
She is best known for her starring role in the 1970 romantic film Love Story, where she played Jenny, opposite Ryan O’Neal.
The film was a major success and became an iconic part of cinema history. Despite a relatively short acting career, Ali MacGraw’s impact on Hollywood remains significant.
Early Life and Education
Raised in Pound Ridge, New York, Ali came from a family of artists. Her mother, Frances (née Klein), was a talented commercial artist, and her father, Richard MacGraw, was also an artist, although Ali described him as being violent.
Ali attended Rosemary Hall in Connecticut and developed an interest in acting during her time there. She later went on to Wellesley College, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in 1961.
Career in Film and Television
Ali’s acting career began in the late 1960s. Her debut was in the 1968 crime film A Lovely Way to Die, but it was her role in Love Story (1970) that brought her worldwide fame.
In addition to Love Story, MacGraw starred in a number of films throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including The Getaway (1972), Convoy (1978), and Players (1979).
Ali also had notable television roles, including the 1983 miniseries The Winds of War, and her part in the 1985 season of the iconic TV show Dynasty.
Awards and Nominations
Throughout her career, MacGraw received numerous accolades. She won a Golden Laurel Award for Female New Face for Goodbye, Columbus (1969), and two Golden Globe Awards for Love Story.
Additionally, she was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress in 1971 for her role in Love Story.
Life After Acting
Ali retired from acting in 1997 but remained active in various pursuits, particularly yoga. She developed a passion for Hatha Yoga in her 50s and later became a yoga instructor.
She has also been involved in animal welfare and works with organizations like PETA and Animals Asia.
In recent years, she has appeared in a few theater productions and made guest appearances in various talk shows.
Personal Life and Relationships
Ali MacGraw has been married three times. Her first marriage was to banker Robert ‘Robin’ Martin Hoen in 1960, but they divorced two years later. In 1969, she married Robert Evans, the famous movie producer, and they had one son, Joshua Evans.
They divorced in 1973, and shortly afterward, Ali married actor Steve McQueen. Their marriage lasted until 1978.
She has been open about her struggles with addiction, having battled cocaine, alcohol, and sex addiction, and has sought treatment at the Betty Ford Center.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Ali MacGraw’s net worth is estimated at $6 million. This wealth is attributed to her successful acting career, yoga endeavors, and various personal projects.
Ali MacGraw remains an influential figure, not only in Hollywood but also in activism. Despite her decision to step away from the limelight, her legacy continues to inspire both fans and fellow advocates for a range of causes.
