While Larry Hagman became a global television icon by playing ruthless oil baron J.R. Ewing on Dallas, his personal life stood in sharp contrast to his fictional persona. Behind the fame and the cameras was a nearly six-decade partnership with his wife, Maj Axelsson. Their marriage weathered military service, the grueling ascent of Hollywood stardom, and major health crises, remaining a steadfast anchor until Larry's passing in 2012.
Understanding their story reveals how a grounded, private home life sustained one of television's most recognizable faces. This piece explores Maj Axelsson's background, how they met, their family life, and how they navigated the challenges of living in the public eye.
Who Was Maj Axelsson?
Maj Axelsson was born on May 13, 1928, in Eskilstuna, Sweden. Long before crossing paths with an aspiring American actor, she built a life centered around design, fashion, and independence. She spent her early years in Sweden before moving to London, where she established herself as a skilled dress designer and worked within the European fashion and home design sectors.
Unlike many spouses of television stars who sought the spotlight, Maj preferred a quiet, creative existence. She maintained her artistic pursuits, even designing costumes for theatrical productions during the struggling early years of her marriage. Her background in design and her practical Swedish upbringing provided a stabilizing counterweight to the erratic and high-pressure environment of the entertainment industry.
Meeting in London and Early Marriage
The couple crossed paths in London in 1953. Larry Hagman was serving in the United States Air Force stationed in England, where he spent much of his military duty entertaining troops as part of stage productions tied to his famous mother, actress Mary Martin.
When Larry and Maj met, neither could predict the level of fame that awaited him. They married the following year in December 1954 through two separate ceremonies—a civil service on December 8 and a traditional church ceremony at the Swedish Church in London on December 18.
- The Military Transition: After Larry finished his service in 1956, the newlyweds moved to New York City.
- Greenwich Village Years: They settled in Greenwich Village, where Larry pursued theater and off-Broadway work while Maj contributed financially and creatively through her clothing design work.
- Laying Foundations: These early years required financial budgeting and mutual support, cementing a partnership built before Hollywood wealth or television contracts entered the picture.
Building a Family Amid Stardom
As Larry's career progressed from New York stages to television—most notably his breakout role as Major Anthony Nelson in I Dream of Jeannie in the 1960s, followed by Dallas in the late 1970s—the family expanded.
They welcomed two children: a daughter, Heidi Kristina, born in 1958, and a son, Preston, born in 1962. Despite the whirlwind of celebrity culture, Larry and Maj prioritized stability for their children. They eventually established a long-term home base in Malibu and Ojai, California, while maintaining ties to Maj's home country by owning property in Sundsvall, Sweden, where they traveled frequently.
Maj acted as the emotional mainstay of the household. While industry peers dealt with fast-paced Hollywood lifestyles, friends and family frequently noted that Maj's ability to host, organize, and keep family life grounded protected their children from the pressures of celebrity.
Navigating Later Years and Health Crises
The true strength of their nearly 58-year marriage faced its hardest tests in their later years. In 2008, Maj was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Larry initially took on the primary caregiving role at their Ojai home. As the disease progressed and Maj required specialized 24-hour nursing care by 2010, Larry relocated to a Santa Monica condominium to remain close to her facility every day. Shortly after, Larry faced his own severe health battle upon being diagnosed with throat cancer, followed by a life-saving liver transplant in 1995 stemming from decades of heavy drinking. Throughout these medical hurdles, their commitment to one another remained a defining constant.
Larry Hagman passed away on November 23, 2012, at the age of 81, just weeks shy of their diamond wedding anniversary. Maj survived him by over three years, passing away on May 31, 2016, surrounded by their children and five grandchildren.
To learn more about classic television history and actor biographies, you can explore the Texas State Historical Association or read historical records via the Los Angeles Times Archives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long were Larry Hagman and Maj Axelsson married?
They were married for nearly 58 years, from their wedding in December 1954 until Larry's death in November 2012.
Did Maj Axelsson work outside the home?
Yes. Before and during the early years of her marriage, Maj worked as a professional dress and clothing designer in London and New York, and later engaged in real estate and home design projects.
How many children did Larry and Maj have?
They had two children together: Heidi Kristina (born 1958) and Preston Benjamin (born 1962), alongside five grandchildren.
Where did Maj Axelsson grow up?
Maj was born and raised in Eskilstuna, Sweden, and maintained lifelong connections to her Swedish roots, frequently returning to visit family and their home in Sundsvall.
