Jocelyn Wildenstein, the iconic Swiss socialite celebrated for her extreme plastic surgeries, has died at the age of 84. Her longtime partner, Lloyd Klein, confirmed to PEOPLE magazine she passed away peacefully during her afternoon nap on December 31, 2023. This news was first reported by AFP and Paris Match.
Born Jocelyne Périsset in Lausanne, Switzerland, Wildenstein eloped with wealthy art dealer Alec Wildenstein in 1977. The couple welcomed two children, Diane and Alec Jr., but their marriage dissolved under the glaring spotlight of tabloid media. Their headline-grabbing divorce was finalized in 1999, resulting in Alec paying Jocelyn a staggering $2.5 billion plus $100 million annually.
Jocelyn became notorious for her feline-like appearance, earning her nicknames such as "The Bride of Wildenstein" and "Catwoman." She claimed the numerous cosmetic procedures were influenced by her husband’s preferences, asserting, "He hates to be with old people." Yet, she also insisted her features were inherited, stating to Vanity Fair back in 1998, "The lynx has perfect eyes. If I show you pictures of my grandmother, what you see are these eyes – cat eyes – and high cheekbones."
Alec Wildenstein, who passed away in 2008, had his doubts about his ex-wife's transformations, saying, "I would always find out last. She was thinking she could fix her face like a piece of furniture. Skin does not work like this. But she wouldn’t listen." Throughout their tumultuous marriage, Jocelyn often felt the pressure of maintaining the affluent lifestyle she was used to, admitting, "I spent $1 million every month to maintain the family’s lifestyle. "
Post-divorce, Jocelyn attempted to remain out of the media's glare, famously stating to The Sunday Times earlier this year, "I’ve never been public. It’s not my nature." She accused Alec of fabrications about her surgeries aimed at tarnishing her image during their split. Reflecting on her financial struggles, she admitted, "I have a huge problem with my settlement. Since eight years, they have completely cut me off." Jocelyn filed for bankruptcy in 2018, leading to the repossession of her luxe apartments at Trump Tower.
Jocelyn's enduring relationship with fashion designer Lloyd Klein began in 2003. Though they faced legal troubles, including an assault charge against Klein after a domestic dispute, both charges were dropped. This tumultuous relationship fluctuated but endured until her death. The pair had recently shared festive moments together, posting cheerful updates on Instagram from Paris just before the tragedy.
Klein honored her memory, stating, "She’s known for plastic surgery, but I don’t know if this is what she should be known for because she did many incredible things throughout her life. Major, major, major achievements." Jocelyn herself expressed thoughts on her post-marital freedom, remarking, "I had a lot of fun. I found freedom, and instead of having to behave according to a program, I could suddenly have the freedom to appreciate it."
Jocelyn Wildenstein leaves behind her partner Lloyd Klein and her two children. Her life, marked by glamor and controversy, will be remembered not only for her surgeries but also for her resilience amid the pressures of fame and personal trials.