Socialite Known as ‘Catwoman’ Jocelyn Wildenstein’s Cause of Death Presumed to Be Phlebitis
Jocelyn Wildenstein passed away at 84 years old. Her longtime partner, Lloyd Klein, has shared details about her death. Klein revealed that she died peacefully in her sleep after suffering from phlebitis. This condition causes inflammation of the veins near the skin due to blood clots, US Weekly reported.
"Due to her phlebitis, her legs were severely swollen. Blood was blocked, and there was no oxygen in the brain," Lloyd explained. He recounted waking from a nap to find Jocelyn cold and unresponsive. "It’s very sad. … It’s extremely sad to lay down with your other half and find her cold."
Jocelyn Wildenstein died on December 31 at a palace in Paris. Klein confirmed to AFP that she experienced a pulmonary embolism, a serious condition wherein a blood clot blocks an artery in the lung. Klein expressed his grief, stating that an "icon is gone" and emphasized his pain over the loss.
Wildenstein, born Jocelyne Périsset, often made headlines due to her extensive plastic surgeries, which crafted her feline-like appearance. This transformation led to her being known as "Catwoman."
Jocelyn was notably married to billionaire art dealer Alec Wildenstein from 1978 until their divorce in 1999. Their split led to immense media coverage, particularly regarding their controversial divorce settlement. Alec previously claimed he had no control over Jocelyn’s plastic surgeries, despite rumors suggesting otherwise.
"She was crazy. I always found out last," Alec alleged. He stated that Jocelyn believed she could fix her face like one does with furniture. She later countered his narrative, asserting he hired a publicist to manipulate perceptions regarding her looks.
In a high-profile divorce settlement, Jocelyn reportedly received $2.5 billion. In addition, she was awarded $100 million each year for 13 years following their separation. Her attorney noted, "They will live happily ever after – but separately." Alec passed away in 2008 after battling cancer.
Jocelyn met Lloyd Klein in 2003 during one of his fashion shows. The designer proposed to her in 2017 at the Versace mansion in Miami. However, it was later revealed that Jocelyn claimed financial issues plagued her life. She indicated she hadn’t received financial support since 2015, leading to her bankruptcy filing in 2020.
"I have a huge problem with my settlement," she stated, explaining her struggle once more to The Times in June 2023. Jocelyn lamented a complete cut-off from the Wildenstein family, precipitating her decision to produce an HBO docuseries highlighting her life.
Jocelyn leaves behind her children, son Alec Jr. and daughter Diane.
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