The world of high society is mourning the loss of Jocelyn Wildenstein, a Swiss-born socialite and plastic surgery pioneer, who has passed away at the age of 84.
According to reports, Wildenstein suffered a pulmonary embolism on New Year’s Eve in Paris, bringing an end to her extraordinary life.
A Life of Luxury and Scandal
Wildenstein’s long-time partner, fashion designer Lloyd Klein, confirmed the news, saying “an icon has left us.” With a life marked by opulence and controversy, Wildenstein became a household name after marrying billionaire art dealer Alec Wildenstein in the 1970s. The couple had two children together, but their two-decade-long union was far from perfect.
A Troubled Marriage and High-Profile Divorce
Their divorce in 1999 was a tabloid sensation, offering a glimpse into the lives of the ultra-rich. The split was reportedly sparked when Wildenstein discovered her husband in bed with a 21-year-old Russian model. This tumultuous period in her life marked the beginning of her fascination with plastic surgery, which would become a defining characteristic of her public image.
The “Cat Woman” of New York
Wildenstein’s extensive use of cosmetic procedures, including eye, lip, and face lifts, cheek and chin implants, and filler injections, was allegedly an attempt to resemble the big cats loved by her estranged husband. Her dramatic transformation earned her the nickname “cat woman” and made her a fixture in New York’s social scene.
A Life of Ups and Downs
Despite securing a multi-million-dollar divorce settlement, Wildenstein struggled financially in her later years, filing for bankruptcy in 2018. However, she is survived by her partner, Lloyd Klein, and her two adult children, who will undoubtedly remember her as a complex and fascinating figure.
Legacy of a True Original
As news of her passing spreads, fans and admirers are taking to social media to pay tribute to this true original. Love her or hate her, Jocelyn Wildenstein was a woman who lived life on her own terms, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. Rest in peace, Jocelyn.