Richard Burton – Biography, Cause of Death and Net Worth

Richard Burton, born Richard Walter Jenkins Jr., rose from a Welsh mining village to become one of the most celebrated actors of the 20th century. He was known for his deep, resonant voice, commanding stage presence, and a film career that included classics like Cleopatra, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, and The Spy Who Came in from the Cold. His personal life, especially his two marriages to Elizabeth Taylor, made him a tabloid fixture.

Throughout his career, Burton earned seven Academy Award nominations but never won. He died in 1984 at age 58 from a cerebral hemorrhage in Switzerland, leaving behind a legacy as a towering figure in both Hollywood and theatre. His Welsh identity remained central to his self-image and his work.

Who Was Richard Burton? The Miner’s Son Who Became a Global Icon

• Richard Burton transitioned from a Welsh mining village to Hollywood royalty.
• He married Elizabeth Taylor twice, creating one of the most famous and turbulent celebrity relationships.
• Burton was nominated for 7 Oscars but never won, a notable gap in his career.
• Despite massive earnings (over $10M for Cleopatra in 1963), he left a modest estate of ~$1M.
• His deep, resonant voice is often cited as his most distinctive actor tool.

For a deeper look at his early life and career, see Britannica’s entry on Richard Burton.

Who Was Richard Burton Married To? A Look at His Famous Relationships

Sybil Williams

Burton married Sybil Williams in 1949, and they had two daughters together, Kate and Jessica. The marriage ended in divorce in 1963 as Burton’s affair with Elizabeth Taylor became public.

Elizabeth Taylor: Two Marriages

Burton and Elizabeth Taylor met during the filming of Cleopatra and married in 1964. They divorced in 1974, remarried in 1975, and divorced again in 1976. Together, they made 11 films, including Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and The Taming of the Shrew. Their relationship was one of the most heavily covered celebrity stories of the era, often overshadowing Burton’s acting achievements.

Later Marriages

After his final divorce from Taylor, Burton married Suzy Miller in 1976 (divorced 1982) and then Sally Hay in 1983, to whom he was married at the time of his death.

What Are the Best Richard Burton Movies? His Most Famous Roles

Early Breakthroughs

Burton made his film debut in 1949 in The Last Days of Dolwyn, but his Hollywood breakthrough came in 1952 with My Cousin Rachel. He followed with The Robe (1953) and earned Oscar nominations for both. His stage training was evident in his Shakespearean performances, including a celebrated Hamlet.

The Taylor Years

Burton’s collaborations with Elizabeth Taylor produced some of his most famous screen work. Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966) earned both actors Oscar nominations, and The Taming of the Shrew (1967) showcased their chemistry. Other notable films from this period include The Night of the Iguana (1964) and The Spy Who Came in from the Cold (1965). For his complete filmography, visit IMDb’s Richard Burton page.

Later Career

In the 1970s, Burton took on action and war films such as Where Eagles Dare (1968) and The Wild Geese (1978). His final feature film was 1984, released in 1984 shortly before his death.

When Did Richard Burton Die and What Was His Cause of Death?

Final Years

Burton’s health declined in the 1970s due to heavy drinking and related ailments. He continued acting, but his output decreased. He died on 5 August 1984 in Céligny, Switzerland, at the age of 58.

Cause of Death

The official cause of death was intracerebral hemorrhage (a brain hemorrhage or stroke). This condition was linked to his long-term alcohol use. The news was met with international tributes from the film and theatre communities.

Aftermath

Burton’s funeral was private, and he is buried in Céligny. His estate was valued at approximately $1 million, surprising many who assumed he was wealthier given his peak earnings.

What Was Richard Burton’s Net Worth and How Did He Spend It?

Peak Earnings

At the height of his career in the late 1960s, Burton commanded fees of $1 million or more per film, plus a share of gross receipts. For Cleopatra, he earned over $10 million when adjusted for inflation. He was one of the highest-paid actors of his time. For a summary of his earnings and spending, see Ewegottalove’s breakdown of his career and net worth.

Estate Value

Despite his lavish lifestyle, Burton left an estate valued at only about $1 million at his death. Probate records show modest assets, though some estimates vary. He spent generously on gifts, travel, and his family, and his financial management was inconsistent.

What Were the Key Milestones in Richard Burton’s Life?

1. 1925: Born Richard Walter Jenkins Jr. in Pontrhydyfen, Wales.
2. 1943: Adopted the stage name ‘Richard Burton’ from his teacher, Philip Burton.
3. 1949: Married Sybil Williams.
4. 1952: Hollywood debut in My Cousin Rachel.
5. 1963: Starred in Cleopatra with Elizabeth Taylor; their affair became global news.
6. 1964: Married Elizabeth Taylor (1st time).
7. 1970: Nominated for Academy Award for Anne of the Thousand Days.
8. 1974: Divorced Elizabeth Taylor (1st divorce).
9. 1975: Remarried Elizabeth Taylor (2nd marriage).
10. 1976: Divorced Elizabeth Taylor (final divorce).
11. 1983: Married Sally Hay (his final marriage).
12. 1984: Died of a cerebral hemorrhage in Switzerland at age 58.

What Do We Know and Not Know About Richard Burton’s Life?

Why Does Richard Burton Still Matter Today?

Richard Burton remains a benchmark for dramatic acting. His powerful stage and screen performances continue to be studied in drama schools. His relationship with Elizabeth Taylor changed the nature of celebrity gossip and paparazzi culture, setting a precedent for modern celebrity news cycles. Burton also struggled with personal demons, including alcoholism, while maintaining a high-output career. His Welsh identity is a point of national pride; the ‘Becoming Richard Burton’ museum project highlights his early life and lasting cultural impact. Burton’s legacy endures because he represented a rare blend of theatrical depth, star power, and vulnerability. For more on his Welsh heritage and cultural significance, visit Wales.com’s profile of Richard Burton and the Becoming Richard Burton museum site.

What Are the Most Reliable Sources on Richard Burton?

“He was the most complete actor of his generation.”

— BBC retrospective

“I am a Welshman. I am an actor. That is all.”

— Richard Burton, as cited in Wales.com profile

For further reading, consult Britannica, Wales.com, and IMDb. The Becoming Richard Burton museum provides a deep dive into his early life, while Ewegottalove offers a summary of his career and net worth.

What Was Richard Burton’s Life in Brief?

Richard Burton was a Welsh actor who achieved international fame through films and stage work. He was nominated for seven Oscars but never won. His personal life, especially his two marriages to Elizabeth Taylor, captivated the world. He earned millions at his peak but left a modest estate. Burton died at age 58 from a brain hemorrhage. His legacy as one of the finest actors of his era remains intact. For similar biographies, read Robin Williams – Biography, Net Worth, Cause of Death and Laurence Fishburne – Biography, Net Worth and Films.

Frequently Asked Questions About Richard Burton