Ali MacGraw & Steve McQueen: Did They Have A Child? The Truth

Noelia Yost 14 May 2025

Did the on-screen romance of Ali MacGraw and Ryan O'Neal in "Love Story" pale in comparison to the real-life drama that unfolded? While Jenny's on-screen fate tugged at heartstrings, the actress's own journey, especially her relationship with the iconic Steve McQueen, was a whirlwind of passion, infidelity, and ultimately, heartbreak.

Ali MacGraw, forever etched in cinematic history as the poignant Jenny Cavilleri in the 1970s "Love Story," experienced a love story of her own, one that extended far beyond the silver screen. Her life, a tapestry woven with threads of stardom, tumultuous relationships, and personal struggles, is a compelling narrative. While the film cast her opposite Ryan O'Neal, her real-life leading man was none other than Steve McQueen, the quintessential "King of Cool." Their paths crossed amidst the bright lights and demanding schedules of Hollywood, culminating in a marriage that captivated the world, yet ultimately, succumbed to the pressures of fame and the complexities of two strong personalities.

Category	Details
Full Name	Elizabeth Alice MacGraw
Date of Birth	April 1, 1939
Place of Birth	Pound Ridge, New York, USA
Nationality	American
Marriages	Robin Hoen (1961-1962), Robert Evans (1969-1972), Steve McQueen (1973-1978)
Children	Josh Evans (born 1971, with Robert Evans)
Education	Wellesley College (attended)
Notable Roles	"Goodbye, Columbus" (1969), "Love Story" (1970), "The Getaway" (1972)
Career Highlights	Academy Award nomination for "Love Story", model and photographer before acting.
Books	"Moving Pictures: An Autobiography" (1991)
Reference	IMDb

Ali MacGraws journey began long before she captivated audiences. Prior to her acting career, she carved a niche for herself in the fashion world, working as a model and photographer. This background lent her a unique poise and a keen eye for visual storytelling, qualities that would serve her well when she transitioned to acting.

Her rise to fame was meteoric. The role of Jenny in "Love Story" catapulted her to international stardom, earning her an Academy Award nomination and solidifying her place as a leading lady of the era. The film's success was undeniable, making her a household name and a symbol of a generation. It was on the set of a film that would further define her personal narrative: "The Getaway" in 1972. This caper flick would not only pair her with Steve McQueen but also mark the beginning of a passionate, yet ultimately troubled, chapter in her life.

Their on-screen chemistry translated into a real-life romance, a fact that was amplified by the media's fascination with the couple. McQueen, already an established Hollywood icon known for his rugged charm and rebellious persona, was irresistible. MacGraw, navigating the complexities of a marriage and career under the harsh spotlight, found herself drawn to McQueen. The attraction was undeniable, the connection immediate. They fell in love quickly and married in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on August 31, 1973. The wedding was a public event; it was the culmination of Hollywood's most sought-after pairing.

Theirs was a union of two powerful personalities. Yet, beneath the veneer of glamour and fame, their marriage was fraught with challenges. McQueen, a complex man, was known for his demanding nature and propensity for living life on his own terms. His lifestyle was often described as a whirlwind of parties and a known suite at the Beverly Wilshire in Los Angeles. It was reported that the iconic actor disappeared for days at a time to party with the local Hell's Angels chapter.

MacGraw, meanwhile, was accustomed to a different sort of life. While she was an actress and dealt with the demands of the industry, she was also a person with a strong sense of self. These contrasting approaches to life, coupled with the pressures of fame and the temptations that surrounded them, created a volatile environment. They found themselves at odds.

The cracks in their relationship began to show publicly. McQueen's reputation for infidelity grew, and MacGraws memoir, "Moving Pictures: An Autobiography," reveals her candid perspective on their turbulent marriage. The book gave readers a glimpse into the challenges of navigating a high-profile relationship. It also painted a picture of a woman grappling with her own choices and the emotional toll of the situation.

The inevitable occurred in 1978, when the couple separated. Following their divorce, a prenuptial agreement left MacGraw without any financial settlement, further highlighting the unequal power dynamic that existed in their relationship. For MacGraw, the separation was a turning point, a moment when she had to rebuild her life and career. It was a time of reflection, a period where she was forced to confront the realities of her past and chart a new course for her future.

The aftermath of the divorce was a testament to MacGraws resilience. She returned to acting, demonstrating her grit and determination to move forward. Her career continued, as she embraced new opportunities and roles. The experience had changed her. She was a survivor, forever marked by the intensity of her relationship with McQueen.

It's interesting to note that her relationship with McQueen was bookended by her work with director Sam Peckinpah, a man known for his complex characters and violent storytelling. MacGraw first worked with him before McQueen and worked with him once again after their divorce. This career arrangement perhaps symbolizes the cyclical nature of her life, of how her decisions seemed to be intertwined with the Hollywood circles that she belonged to.

The story of Ali MacGraw and Steve McQueen is more than a tale of celebrity romance. It is a story about love, loss, and the price of fame. It is a cautionary tale about the challenges that come with living under the relentless glare of the spotlight. It is also a story of resilience, of a woman who, despite the heartbreaks and betrayals, persevered, leaving an undeniable legacy in both her professional and personal life. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the times, it's essential to remember that the cultural landscape of the 1970s helped to shape the relationships within Hollywood.

Beyond the headlines and the tabloids, there was a private side to McQueen. He was also a father. His children from his first marriage, Neile Adams, were central to his life. He had two children with Adams, and the loss of his daughter, Terry, was an enormous blow to him. While he maintained the iconic persona, he showed great sensitivity and love for his children.

MacGraw's life, however, was not defined solely by her relationship with McQueen. She had a son, Josh Evans, with her second husband, Robert Evans, the legendary Hollywood producer. Josh, born in 1971, stood by his mother, even during times of personal struggle. The bond between mother and son, particularly during a time when MacGraw sought treatment for addiction, revealed a different facet of her life. Despite the challenges, their bond has always been one of love and support.

The narrative of Ali MacGraw provides insight into the lives of the rich and famous. Her life, marked by the highs and lows of fame, remains a compelling story about the complexities of human relationships. It's a story that still resonates. It continues to intrigue people, illustrating the power of fame, the challenges of love, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

McQueens film, The Getaway, was the nexus of their relationship. During filming, their attraction was undeniable, and they began an affair. After their marriage, McQueen wanted to ensure his wife's presence on set. He even asked a director to let MacGraw act as a producer on another project.

Her acting career was marked by a few select roles, demonstrating the quality of her work. And, though her public image was that of a glamorous actress, she also faced struggles. She has been honest about her life and the challenges she has faced. She has shown courage by writing about the struggles she has faced, including her addiction. Her openness has allowed her to offer inspiration to others.

Ali MacGraws life is a multifaceted portrait of a woman navigating the often-treacherous waters of fame and love. Her story is a testament to the enduring human capacity for resilience. Its a story that continues to fascinate, reminding us that even the most glamorous lives are rarely as perfect as they may seem from the outside. Its a reminder that behind every public persona, there is a complex human being grappling with the universal experiences of love, loss, and the search for meaning.