Jocelyn Wildenstein, the socialite famously nicknamed “Catwoman” for her distinctive appearance, has passed away at 84. She died peacefully in her sleep on New Year’s Eve in Paris, where she was staying with her longtime partner, fashion designer Lloyd Klein. Klein shared the news, explaining that Wildenstein’s health seemed fine just days earlier despite a chronic condition involving poor circulation in her legs, which he believes contributed to her passing.
Wildenstein gained fame following her high-profile 1997 divorce from art dealer Alec Wildenstein, which was, at the time, the most expensive divorce settlement in history, awarding her $2.5 billion. Her life remained in the public eye, largely due to her striking appearance, which she attributed to natural aging and not the extensive plastic surgery rumored in the media. She also experienced financial struggles later in life, filing for bankruptcy in 2018.
Born Jocelyne Périsset in Lausanne, Switzerland, in 1940, Wildenstein lived a life of luxury and controversy. While her dramatic physical transformation often made headlines, she consistently denied undergoing surgery. In recent years, she shared photos from her youth to counter the speculation and accusations of altered images.
Wildenstein is survived by her two children with Alec Wildenstein. Her legacy as a socialite and cultural figure remains tied to the extravagant highs and challenging lows that marked her remarkable life.
