Welcome! Check out today's deaths, recent deaths, or our deaths stats.

Feeling experimental? Head on over to our newest (and darkest) feature: Next-2-Die™ predictions

Jocelyn Wildenstein

Swiss socialite (1940–2024).

Born September 7th, 1945 in Lausanne.

Died December 31st, 2024 at 79 years old in Paris (pulmonary embolism). [ref]

Occupations
art collector, socialite

Jocelyn Wildenstein, known for her extravagant lifestyle and ever-changing appearance, passed away on December 31, 2024 at the age of 84. Born on August 5, 1940 in Lausanne, Switzerland, Jocelyn was the daughter of a prosperous businessman. She moved to the United States in the 1970s and became a prominent figure in New York City's high society. Jocelyn gained notoriety for her extreme plastic surgeries, which were rumored to have cost millions of dollars. Her distinctive feline-like features, inspired by her love for big cats, earned her the nickname "Catwoman." Despite her controversial appearance, Jocelyn was a philanthropist and supported various charities, including organizations dedicated to animal welfare. She was married five times, with her most notable marriage to billionaire art dealer Alec Wildenstein. Their high-profile divorce in 1999 made headlines and resulted in one of the largest divorce settlements in history. Jocelyn's lavish lifestyle and constant media attention often overshadowed her other accomplishments. She was a skilled equestrian and owned her own racing stable. She also had a passion for art and collected works by famous artists. She is survived by her two children, who were often seen accompanying her to society events. Jocelyn's legacy will be remembered by many, both for her unique appearance and her contributions to philanthropy and the art world. May she rest in peace.

Death comes to all, but great achievements build a monument which shall endure until the sun grows cold. Ralph Waldo Emerson