Jocelyn Wildenstein, the 84-year-old socialite popularly known for her dramatic cosmetic s¥rgeries and one of the largest divorce settlements in history, has passed away.
She reportedly d+ed on Tuesday in her Paris residence due to a pulmonary embolism, as confirmed by Paris Match and other local sources.
“Her partner Lloyd Klein is saddened to announce the death of Jocelyn Wildenstein in Paris,” AFP reported.
Nicknamed “Catwoman” for her s¥rgeries aimed at achieving feline-like features, Wildenstein was last seen in public two weeks ago in Paris, appearing to be in good health.
Born Jocelyne Périsset on August 5, 1940, in Lausanne, Switzerland, late Wildenstein grew up in a middle-class family. Her father worked as a department store buyer. At 17, she began dating Swiss movie producer Cyril Piguet, later spending five years with European filmmaker Sergio Gobbi. During this time, she developed a passion for Africa, which would shape her future.
Her life changed dramatically in 1977 when she met Alec Wildenstein, a French-born American billionaire, during a safari in Kenya. Introduced by Saudi arms dealer Adnan Khashoggi, the couple married in 1978. Their marriage ended in a highly publicized divorce in the late 1990s, resulting in a $2.5 billion settlement, one of the largest in history.
Wildenstein became known not only for her unique appearance but also for her adventurous lifestyle. She was an experienced hunter, pilot, and art enthusiast.
Despite her fame and controversies, Jocelyn Wildenstein’s life story remains one of extravagance and transformation.
Peoplesmind
