Socialite Jocelyn Wildenstein aka Catwoman is dead at 84

Jocelyn Wildenstein, the high-society figure known for her distinctive appearance that earned her the moniker “Catwoman,” passed away on New Year's Eve at age 84. Paris-Match verified that she succumbed to a pulmonary embolism while staying at a Parisian palace, a setting that matched her flamboyant persona.

Wildenstein, formerly Jocelyn Périsset, made her final public appearance on December 22. She was photographed on December 18 alongside companion Lloyd Klein, sporting a fur coat and oversized sunglasses covering her feline-like features.

January 19, 2013: Jocelyne Wildenstein, aka ‘Catwoman,' and her boyfriend, Lloyd Klein, leave Mr. Chow restaurant in Beverly Hills, California today. Photo Credit: Karl Larsen/INFphoto.com

Born in Switzerland, Wildenstein rose to prominence during the 1990s following her high-profile divorce from billionaire Alec N. Wildenstein, citing his alleged unfaithfulness. The settlement reportedly granted her $2.5 billion plus yearly payments of $100 million. Alec later died in 2008 at age 67.

By 2023, she declared herself “flat broke,” alleging that her former spouse's family had terminated her settlement payments. She revealed she hadn't received any funds for eight years, despite maintaining an opulent lifestyle.

New York, NY – 11/18/04 – Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation hosts 14th Annual Gala “A Magical Evening” at The New York Marriott Marquis. Glenn Close received the Human Spirit Award. Minnie Driver hosted the celebration which had William H. Macy as a special presenter. PICTURED: Jocelyn Wildenstein Photo Credit: Anthony Savignano/startraksphoto.com

Wildenstein's distinctive facial features became her cultural trademark. In August 2024, she shared a throwback image with her daughter Diana, sparking renewed discussions about her alleged cosmetic procedures.

Despite widespread speculation, Wildenstein maintained in November, “I haven't had plastic surgery. I am scared of what can happen, and I don't like to have something heavy. Sometimes, it is a bit heavy and terrible… I have had Botox only twice. I don't know if I am allergic, but when I had it, it did not go well with me. It was not a good result. My face swelled up. If [other women] want to do it too strong, it doesn't work well.”