Her big break came in 1969 with Goodbye, Columbus, which earned her a Golden Globe Award. But it was her role as Jenny in Love Story (1970) that made her a household name. The film was a major success, and her performance brought her both critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination.
Behind the scenes, her personal life was often as dramatic as her roles. In 1969, she married film producer Robert Evans, and they welcomed a son, Josh, in 1971. However, her next film, The Getaway, led to a relationship with her co-star Steve McQueen. Their connection became a headline-making romance, and Ali eventually left Evans for McQueen. While their relationship was passionate, it also came with sacrifices—most notably, her decision to pause her acting career at McQueen’s request.
Their marriage ended in 1978, and in the years that followed, Ali reflected on that time as both beautiful and challenging. In the 1980s, she faced personal struggles, including issues with substance use. Her decision to seek help at the Betty Ford Center in 1986 marked a major turning point. It began a journey focused on healing, self-reflection, and inner growth.
In 1993, tragedy struck when a wildfire destroyed her California home. Rather than rebuilding in the same place, Ali made a bold decision—to leave Hollywood behind. She relocated to a small village near Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she discovered a new rhythm of life. Surrounded by nature and supported by a close-knit community, she embraced wellness practices like yoga and became involved in charitable causes, including animal rescue.
Though she stepped away from acting for the most part, Ali occasionally returned for meaningful projects. In 2006, she reunited with Love Story co-star Ryan O’Neal for a stage production, a heartfelt moment for longtime fans.
Family remains an important part of her life. Her son Josh, now a successful director and actor, shares a close bond with her. She has described him as her “favorite human,” and she cherishes her role as a grandmother to his son, Jackson. After a childhood marked by instability, Ali has found deep joy and comfort in the family she’s helped nurture.
Today, Ali MacGraw is known not just for her classic roles, but for the grace with which she has lived her life. With her silver hair and calm demeanor, she reflects a life filled with self-discovery, compassion, and quiet strength. Her story is a reminder that lasting fulfillment often comes not from public attention, but from choosing a life that aligns with our values.
Ali MacGraw’s journey—from red carpets to quiet mountain paths—is a testament to the beauty of reinvention and the courage it takes to follow your own path. Through all of life’s changes, she has remained true to herself—and continues to inspire others to do the same.