Liz Hurley
Liz Hurley: The English Model, Actress, and Businesswoman
Elizabeth Jane Hurley (born 10 June 1965) is an English model, actress, and businesswoman. She rose to fame in the 1990s as the girlfriend of actor Hugh Grant, and went on to star in a number of films, including Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994), Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997), and Bedazzled (2000). Hurley has also appeared in several television series, including Gossip Girl (2007-2012) and The Royals (2015-2018).
Early Life and Career
Liz Hurley was born in Basingstoke, Hampshire, England, to parents Ann and Ronald Hurley. She has two sisters, Kate and Justine. Hurley attended Prior's Field School in Godalming, Surrey, and later studied drama at the London Studio Centre.
Hurley began her modeling career in the early 1990s, appearing in campaigns for brands such as Estée Lauder and Lancôme. In 1994, she made her film debut in Four Weddings and a Funeral, directed by Mike Newell. The film was a critical and commercial success, and Hurley's performance was praised by critics.
Film and Television Career
After the success of Four Weddings and a Funeral, Hurley went on to star in a number of films, including Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997), Bedazzled (2000), and Method (2004). She has also appeared in several television series, including Gossip Girl (2007-2012) and The Royals (2015-2018).
Hurley's acting career has been met with mixed reviews. Some critics have praised her for her beauty and charisma, while others have criticized her for her lack of range and emotional depth. However, Hurley remains a popular figure in the entertainment industry, and continues to work in both film and television.
Business Ventures
In addition to her acting career, Hurley is also a successful businesswoman. In 2005, she launched her own clothing line, Elizabeth Hurley Beach. The line is sold in department stores and boutiques around the world. Hurley has also written a book about her experiences in the fashion industry, titled The Handbook for the Stylish: Achieving Your Personal Best Look
Personal Life
Liz Hurley was in a relationship with actor Hugh Grant from 1987 to 2000. The couple had one son together, Damian Charles Hurley, who was born in 2002. Hurley was married to Arun Nayar from 2007 to 2011.
Hurley is a close friend of Elton John and David Furnish. She is also a patron of the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
Filmography
- Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)
- Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997)
- Bedazzled (2000)
- Method (2004)
- Gossip Girl (2007-2012)
- The Royals (2015-2018)
Awards and Nominations
- BAFTA Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role (nominated) - Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series - Musical or Comedy (nominated) - Gossip Girl (2009)
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series (nominated) - The Royals (2017)