George Hamilton Says of Previous Flame Elizabeth Taylor, “A Year With Her Could Fill a Lifetime”

In early ’60s Hollywood, a young George Hamilton was in the right place at the right time.

“The studios told me: ‘Date all the girls you can — just make sure they are under contract with us.’ I asked to see their roster!” George jokes with Closer in an exclusive interview.

George dated many of the era’s most sought-after beauties, including the beloved Elizabeth Taylor. In the new issue of Closer Weekly, he opens up about their relationship more than ever before.

“Elizabeth was a unique human being,” George reminisces. “She was one of a kind. She could stay up all night and play cards with you or get on a plane and go anywhere. She was fun. She was bigger than life.”

Many men sought Elizabeth’s love, but George succeeded because he understood how she operated.

“We had a big fight one time,” he reveals to Closer. “I said, ‘Look, here’s what we’re going to do, I’m going to leave and when you’ve decided to change your attitude, call me.’ She said, ‘Are you threatening me?!’ I said, ‘That’s not a threat, that’s a promise.’ I walked downstairs and I walked out.

“If you don’t do it, you’ve already lost her,” he explains to the mag. “Women will always test you. I don’t think there’s anything worse than a girl feeling like a guy is hovering over her every minute.” By giving her space, the two developed mutual respect and a beautiful relationship.

And it remained that way even after their romance ended and right up until her death.

“We were friends right up until she passed away,” George solemnly tells Closer. “I probably have more personal memories from her than anyone. A year with her could fill a lifetime.”

Related: Elizabeth Taylor’s Grandson Pays Tribute to the Acting Legend

George opens up further about his dating life, including his past relationships with Tuesday Weld, Vanessa Redgrave and Joan Collins, in the new issue of Closer Weekly, on stands now.