Jocelyn Wildenstein, the Swiss socialite famously nicknamed “Catwoman” due to her distinctive cosmetic surgeries, passed away on New Year’s Eve in Paris. Her partner of 21 years, fashion designer Lloyd Klein, confirmed the news to AFP and People. She was 84 years old.
Klein recounted their final moments together, sharing that they had enjoyed a quiet evening leading up to the celebration. “We had a nice happy hour that same night, getting ready for the new year,” Klein told People. “We took a little nap just to look good before getting dressed. It’s extremely sad to lay down with your other half and wake up to find her cold.”
Wildenstein rose to global attention for her dramatic transformation through extensive plastic surgeries, which gave her a feline-like appearance. Throughout her life, she embraced her unique look and was a self-described art dealer.
Her personal life also drew public interest, particularly her high-profile marriage to Alec Wildenstein, an art dealer and heir. Their divorce made headlines when Jocelyn was awarded a staggering $2.5 billion settlement, along with $100 million annually for 13 years.
Beyond her public persona, Wildenstein found a new audience in recent years through social media. At the time of her death, she had amassed more than 1.1 million followers on Instagram, where she often shared glimpses of her life.
Wildenstein’s sudden passing has left Klein and her admirers around the world grieving the loss of a woman who, despite controversies, lived unapologetically on her own terms.
