The Swiss-born socialite known as "Catwoman" was found unresponsive in her residence during what was meant to be preparation for New Year's Eve festivities.
According to Fox News, Jocelyn Wildenstein died peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, December 31, while taking a nap alongside her longtime partner, Lloyd Klein.
Klein revealed that Wildenstein's death was attributed to phlebitis, a condition causing blood clots to form and block veins, primarily affecting the legs. The condition, which her grandmother also experienced, led to severe swelling in her legs, ultimately resulting in oxygen deprivation to her brain.
Klein, who had been Wildenstein's partner for 21 years, shared the devastating moment of discovering her lifeless body. The fashion designer described their plans for New Year's Eve celebrations, making the discovery particularly heartbreaking.
Klein said about Wildenstein's final moments:
We had a nice happy hour the same night, and we were getting ready for the new year, and we took a little nap just to look good before getting dressed.
The couple had maintained an active social life in the days leading up to her death, dining at the Ritz and attending Fashion Week events at Chanel. Klein emphasized that Wildenstein appeared to be in excellent health, showing no signs of her impending passing.
Wildenstein's rise to prominence began in the 1990s following her high-profile divorce from billionaire art collector Alec Wildenstein. The settlement granted her $2.5 billion, making her one of the world's wealthiest individuals at the time, along with substantial annual payments.
Her distinctive appearance, which earned her the nickname "Catwoman," became a subject of public fascination. Despite widespread speculation about extensive plastic surgery, Wildenstein maintained that her unique features were attributed to her Swiss heritage, particularly her high cheekbones and long hair.
The socialite's financial status underwent a dramatic shift by 2018 when she filed for bankruptcy. Her affidavit revealed a stark contrast to her previous wealth, stating her sole income came from Social Security, and she relied on friends and family for daily expenses.
Her relationship with Klein weathered various challenges, including mutual allegations of domestic violence in 2016. Both parties were eventually cleared of charges related to an altercation at their Trump World Tower residence.
Wildenstein and Klein's relationship began shortly after her divorce, spanning nearly 15 years before his proposal. Their partnership remained steady despite public scrutiny and personal challenges.
The couple's final days together were marked by social engagements and public appearances, with Klein noting their recent attendance at Fashion Week events where they received VIP treatment and media attention. He shared their experience:
Two months ago, she attended the Chanel show. Everyone invited us to dinner. Everyone welcomed her with red carpet. Paparazzi were following us. It was the return to Paris. We were at the top of our game. Everything was at the top.
Jocelyn Wildenstein's death on New Year's Eve 2024 marked the end of an era that saw her transform from a Swiss-born socialite to one of the world's wealthiest women following her landmark divorce settlement. Her passing, caused by complications from phlebitis, occurred while preparing for New Year's Eve celebrations with her partner of 21 years, Lloyd Klein. She is survived by her children, Diane and Alec Jr., leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of public fascination, financial extremes, and personal transformation.
