Jocelyn Wildenstein, the New York socialite famously known for her dramatic cosmetic transformations and dubbed “Catwoman,” has passed away at the age of 79. Her partner, Lloyd Klein, shared the news that she succumbed to a pulmonary embolism in Paris. Wildenstein’s actual age has been somewhat unclear, with some reports suggesting she was 84 at the time of her death.
Wildenstein gained notoriety in the 1990s during her highly publicized divorce from billionaire art dealer Alec Wildenstein. Her distinctive, feline-like features became a defining characteristic of her public persona.
In touching remarks shared by Klein, he recounted their final moments together, describing moments of joy and tenderness. They had enjoyed a celebration leading up to the New Year but tragically, upon waking from a nap, he discovered that she had passed away.
Hailing from Lausanne, Switzerland, Wildenstein expressed fond memories of her childhood and her deep love for Africa in her interviews. She was involved in various ecological and philanthropic efforts, particularly focusing on wildlife conservation in Kenya, where her family ranch protected over 2,000 animals.
Wildenstein’s marriage to Alec began in Las Vegas in 1978, and together they worked on creating one of America’s largest private art collections. However, their union ended in a very public and tumultuous divorce, which included allegations of infidelity and violent confrontations. Despite receiving a lucrative settlement of $2.5 billion and annual payments, Wildenstein faced financial difficulties years later, leading to her bankruptcy in 2018 after the termination of funds by Alec’s family.
Her relationship with Klein, which began in 2003, also attracted media attention, including a notable incident in 2016 involving legal troubles stemming from a domestic dispute. However, they seemed to have reconciled, with plans to create a documentary series about her life.
Wildenstein is survived by her two children and her longtime partner.
This news serves as a reminder of the complexities of fame and the personal struggles that often accompany it. While Wildenstein’s life was marked by triumphs and challenges, her legacy remains a testimony to resilience in the face of adversity.