Jocelyn Wildenstein, Socialite Known as “Catwoman,” Dies at 79

Jocelyn Wildenstein, the iconic New York City socialite famously nicknamed “Catwoman” for her feline-like appearance, has passed away at the age of 79. Her partner, Lloyd Klein, confirmed that she died from a pulmonary embolism while in Paris.

Jocelyn was a fixture in tabloids during the 1990s, especially during her highly publicized divorce from billionaire art dealer Alec Wildenstein. Known for her dramatic plastic surgery, her appearance drew widespread media attention and earned her the nickname “Catwoman.” Despite the controversies surrounding her look, she remained a symbol of intrigue and glamour throughout her life.

A Sudden and Unexpected Passing

Lloyd Klein, Jocelyn’s partner, shared details about their last evening together. The couple had spent the night enjoying themselves and preparing to celebrate the New Year.

“We had a nice happy hour the same night,” Klein shared in an interview with People magazine. “We were getting ready for the new year, and we took a little nap just to look good before getting dressed.” However, tragedy struck during their nap. Klein woke up to find Jocelyn unresponsive.

Klein revealed that Jocelyn had been dealing with phlebitis, a condition that causes inflammation in the veins. “Because of her phlebitis, the legs were very, very swollen, and the blood was blocked, and there was no oxygen in the brain,” Klein explained. Despite his efforts to wake her, she had already passed away.

A Life of Glamour and Controversy

Born in Lausanne, Switzerland, Jocelyn Wildenstein’s life was far from ordinary. She described her childhood as “fantastic” in an interview with Interview magazine. She spoke about her love for Africa, a passion that shaped much of her life. It was in Africa that she met her former husband, Alec Wildenstein, and began a life that combined art, luxury, and philanthropy.

Jocelyn and Alec were deeply involved in ecological and educational work in Africa. She mentioned that over 2,000 animals were protected on the Wildenstein family ranch in Kenya, a cause that she held close to her heart. During their marriage, she also worked alongside Alec in the art world, helping to deal and curate art pieces.

However, her marriage to Alec ended in one of the most talked-about divorces of the 1990s. The split, which involved millions of dollars and intense media scrutiny, catapulted Jocelyn into the public eye. Around this time, her appearance, dramatically altered by cosmetic surgery, became a hot topic in tabloids. While some criticized her look, others found her unapologetic attitude inspiring.

Life Beyond the Spotlight

Despite being labeled and judged by the media, Jocelyn Wildenstein continued to live her life on her own terms. She remained a private yet captivating figure, occasionally granting interviews where she reflected on her life, passions, and challenges. She was unapologetic about her decisions, including her choice to undergo plastic surgery, and always stayed true to herself.

In her later years, Jocelyn focused on her relationship with Lloyd Klein and her philanthropic work. Her love for animals and her contributions to their protection remained a significant part of her identity.

A Legacy of Glamour and Mystery

Jocelyn Wildenstein’s passing marks the end of an era for a figure who was both celebrated and criticized in equal measure. Her life, full of glamour, controversy, and resilience, captivated the world. She leaves behind a legacy that goes beyond her tabloid nickname. From her work in Africa to her role in the art world, Jocelyn was more than just a socialite with a distinct appearance—she was a woman who lived boldly and unapologetically.

As the world remembers Jocelyn, her story serves as a reminder that behind every public persona lies a complex and fascinating life. Whether loved or misunderstood, Jocelyn Wildenstein will be remembered as a symbol of individuality and strength.