Long before Larry Hagman became a global television icon as the scheming villain J.R. Ewing in Dallas, he met a young Swedish dress designer in London who would anchor his life for nearly six decades. While Hollywood marriages famously burn out in months, Larry Hagman and Maj Axelsson stayed together for 58 years. Their partnership weathered military service, financial struggle, sudden television fame, and severe health crises until death parted them in 2012.
Maj Axelsson chose to stay largely out of the spotlight, letting her husband soak up the public adulation while she managed the family foundation and creative projects. Understanding their quiet, enduring bond reveals a deeply human side to an actor best known for playing America's favorite television scoundrel.
Meeting in London and Early Struggles
The couple crossed paths in 1953 while Larry was serving in the U.S. Air Force stationed in Britain. Tasked with entertaining troops and producing stage shows, Larry was also connected to theatrical circles through his famous mother, actress Mary Martin. A mutual friend brought Maj home for tea at an Air Force supply station.
Maj wasn't initially impressed. She later recalled that she thought the young American was a flashy show-off who made too much money. Larry, conversely, was entirely captivated by her sharp intellect and European sensibility. If you want more about the context of this, Entertainment Weekly offers an informative breakdown.
They dated briefly before marrying in December 1954. They held two ceremonies in London: a civil service on December 8, followed by a church ceremony at the Swedish Church in London on December 18.
When Larry finished his military duty, the newlyweds moved to New York City, settling into Greenwich Village. Larry worked modest jobs in off-Broadway and Broadway theater while Maj applied her talents to clothing and costume design, sewing outfits for nightclub performers to help pay the bills. They welcomed two children, Heidi in 1958 and Preston in 1962, establishing a family unit long before Larry cracked open mainstream television.
Navigating Fame and Sudden Wealth
For years, the household relied heavily on Maj's practical eye and steady demeanor. Larry found moderate success on television, most notably as Major Anthony Nelson in I Dream of Jeannie during the late 1960s, but it was Dallas that changed their lives permanently.
When scripts for Dallas arrived, Larry had doubts about whether the soap opera would find an audience. Maj looked at the material and assured him it would become a massive hit. She was entirely right. When the "Who Shot J.R.?" phenomenon gripped global television in 1980, Larry became an overnight international superstar.
Despite the intense media circus, paparazzi presence, and wealth that followed, the pair maintained a remarkably grounded household. Maj didn't seek Hollywood celebrity status. Instead, she channeled her energy into local community arts, serving on the board of the Ojai Music Festival and supporting environmental and educational causes.
Later Years, Illness, and Final Chapter
As they entered their later decades, the couple faced severe health trials. In 2008, Maj was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Larry cared for her at their ranch in Ojai, California, for as long as his own health allowed. By 2010, her condition required professional round-the-clock nursing care. To remain close to her, Larry left their remote property and moved into a Santa Monica condominium near her facility.
Larry faced his own battles, undergoing treatment for throat cancer and later battling myelodysplastic syndrome. In interviews during his final years, he spoke openly about how deeply he missed his wife's sharp wit and daily presence, calling her the absolute love of his life.
Larry Hagman passed away on November 23, 2012, just weeks shy of what would have been their 58th wedding anniversary. Maj survived him by over three years, passing away on May 31, 2016, at the age of 88 in Los Angeles. They left behind two children and five granddaughters.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Larry Hagman and Maj Axelsson get married?
They married in December 1954 in London, England, holding both a civil ceremony and a traditional service at the Swedish Church. Their marriage lasted for nearly 58 years until Larry's death in 2012.
What was Maj Axelsson's profession?
Maj Axelsson was a trained dress and clothing designer. During the early years of their marriage in New York City, she designed and sewed costumes to help support the family while Larry pursued his theater career.
Did Larry Hagman and Maj Axelsson have children?
Yes, they had two children together: a daughter named Heidi Kristina, born in 1958, and a son named Preston, born in 1962.
How long did Maj Axelsson live after Larry Hagman died?
Larry Hagman died on November 23, 2012. Maj Axelsson lived for more than three additional years, passing away on May 31, 2016, at the age of 88.
