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The New York socialite Jocelyn Wildenstein famously nicknamed “Catwoman” for her distinctive appearance shaped by numerous cosmetic surgeries, has died at the age of 84.
Her fiancé, Lloyd Klein, shared the news, revealing that she passed away at her Paris residence due to a pulmonary embolism, a condition caused by a blood clot obstructing one or more arteries in the lungs.
Wildenstein became a prominent figure in the late 1990s, not just for her unique feline-like features but also for her highly publicized divorce from billionaire art dealer Alec Wildenstein. Their divorce made headlines worldwide, with Jocelyn receiving a landmark settlement of $2.5 billion. At the time, it was one of the largest divorce settlements in history. However, the fortune didn’t last, and she filed for bankruptcy in 2018 after years of financial difficulties.
Jocelyn’s transformation was reportedly fueled by a desire to satisfy Alec, who was said to admire cats. However, she always denied being addicted to cosmetic surgery. In a 1998 interview with Vanity Fair, she attributed her feline-like appearance to her Swiss heritage, claiming her grandmother’s features bore similar traits.
Born in Lausanne, Switzerland, Jocelyn led a life that blended luxury, controversy, and mystery. Her extravagant lifestyle was characterized by opulent mansions, high-profile events, and a love for art and fashion. Despite her public persona, those who knew her well described her as private and misunderstood.
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Her partner, Lloyd Klein, spoke fondly of her resilience and unique character. “Jocelyn was so much more than what people saw on the surface,” he said. “She had a fierce spirit, an unshakable confidence, and a determination to live life on her own terms.”
While her physical transformation drew widespread attention and criticism, Jocelyn’s life was far more complex than the headlines suggested. She was a woman who defied convention and embraced individuality, even at great personal cost.
