Welcome to the intriguing world of Natalie Wihongi, a name that resonates far beyond the confines of her association as Karl Urban’s ex-wife. Renowned for her impressive skill set as a makeup artist, Natalie has carved a niche for herself in the glamorous yet demanding Hollywood film industry. Her journey from the picturesque locales of Auckland, New Zealand, to the bustling movie sets in Los Angeles showcases a tale of passion, dedication, and creativity. Let’s delve into the life of this talented artist, exploring her personal and professional escapades and the indelible mark she has left on the cinematic world.
Profile Summary Natalie Wihongi
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Natalie Wihongi |
| Famous As | Karl Urban’s Ex-Wife |
| Date of Birth | 8 March 1972 |
| Age | 51 |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Place of Birth | Auckland, New Zealand |
| Children | Indiana Urban, Hunter Urban |
| Ex/Spouse | Karl Urban |
| Gender | Female |
| Profession | Makeup Artist |
| Nationality | New Zealand |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Hazel |
| Height | 5’3’’ |
| Weight | 60kg |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Relationship Status | Divorced |
| Net Worth | $1 million |
Early Life and Education
Born on a serene March day in 1972, in the city of Auckland, Natalie grew up in a culturally rich and supportive family. Her father, a businessman, and her mother, a housewife, encouraged her artistic inclinations from a young age. Natalie attended Epsom Girls Grammar School, a prestigious institution known for nurturing talent, which further solidified her foundation in the arts. Fuelled by a burning desire to explore the realm of beauty and makeup, she later pursued higher studies in makeup artistry at a notable private university in Auckland.
Upon completing her education, with dreams bigger than the boundaries of her homeland, Natalie made the bold move to Los Angeles, the city of stars, where her true journey as a makeup artist began.
Career Highlights
The streets of Los Angeles, lined with opportunities and challenges, welcomed Natalie with open arms. She embarked on her career with a short course in makeup right after high school, which ignited a lifelong passion. Her big break came in the year 2000 when she worked on the set of “The Privateers,” not only marking her entry into Hollywood but also where she met her future husband, Karl Urban. Over the years, Natalie’s expertise and artistry have shone through in various projects, including the critically acclaimed movie “Rain” in 2001.
Her ability to enhance natural beauty and create character-specific looks made her a sought-after artist in the industry. Natalie’s journey through the world of makeup artistry is a testament to her skill in transforming the mundane into the extraordinary, leaving a lasting impression in both pre-and post-production phases of filmmaking.
Personal Life
Natalie’s personal life has been as colorful and interesting as her career. She met Karl Urban on the set of “The Privateers,” and the couple’s relationship blossomed amidst the busy life of film sets and makeup trailers. They married in September 2004 and were blessed with two sons, Hunter and Indiana. Indiana’s name was inspired by the iconic character Indiana Jones, reflecting Karl’s love for the character. Despite their separation in June 2014, Natalie and Karl have maintained a healthy environment for their children, focusing on their well-being and privacy. Natalie’s life post-divorce remains low-profile as she continues to balance her personal life with her demanding professional commitments.
Karl Urban: Famous Ex-husband of Natalie Wihongi
Karl Urban is a prominent actor from New Zealand, born on June 7, 1972, in Wellington. He is widely recognized for his roles in major film franchises and television series. Urban’s notable performances include playing Éomer in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy in the “Star Trek” reboot films, and the lead role in “Dredd.” He also stars as Billy Butcher in the popular TV series “The Boys.” With his diverse roles across genres such as action, science fiction, and drama, Karl Urban has established himself as a versatile and acclaimed actor in the international entertainment industry.
The Relationship Between Natalie Wihongi and Karl Urban
Natalie Wihongi and Karl Urban’s relationship began on a movie set when they met during the filming of “The Privateers” in 2000, where Natalie was working as a makeup artist and Karl was acting. Their connection quickly blossomed into romance, leading to their marriage in September 2004. They have two sons together, Hunter and Indiana, the latter named after Karl’s favorite film character, Indiana Jones. However, after nearly a decade of marriage, the couple announced their separation in June 2014 and have since focused on co-parenting their children while maintaining a respectful relationship post-divorce.
Natalie Wihongi and Karl Urban’s Separation
After ten years of marriage, Natalie Wihongi and Karl Urban decided to part ways, announcing their divorce in June 2014. Throughout their marriage, they shared two sons, and despite their separation, they committed to maintaining a positive environment for their children. The details of their split were kept private, reflecting their desire to manage their separation with dignity and respect for each other’s privacy. Post-divorce, Natalie and Karl have continued to co-parent effectively, ensuring their family dynamics remain as stable and supportive as possible for the sake of their children.
Impact and Legacy
Natalie Wihongi’s impact on the makeup industry is both profound and inspiring. Her work has not only graced movie screens but has also influenced aspiring makeup artists worldwide. Her approach to makeup, focusing on enhancing rather than masking, has contributed significantly to the aesthetic of numerous films. Natalie’s legacy in Hollywood is defined by her dedication to her craft and her ability to leave a mark on every project she undertakes, making her a true artist in the realm of cinematic makeup.
Challenges Faced
The path to success in Hollywood is seldom easy, and Natalie’s journey was no exception. Balancing her roles as a mother and a professional in a highly competitive industry presented numerous challenges. The pressure of maintaining a high standard of work while managing a family took a toll, yet her resilience shone through. Natalie’s story is one of overcoming personal and professional hurdles through sheer determination and love for her craft.
Net Worth and Financial Independence
Natalie Wihongi’s financial independence is reflective of her successful career in the competitive Hollywood industry. With a net worth estimated at $1 million, she has established herself not only as a talented makeup artist but also as a savvy individual capable of navigating the financial aspects of her career. Her success is a powerful message to aspiring artists that with hard work and dedication, financial independence is within reach.
Conclusion
Natalie Wihongi’s story is not just about her relationship with a famous actor but about a woman who followed her passion, faced challenges head-on and emerged successful on her own terms. Her journey from Auckland to Hollywood is a source of inspiration for many, proving that talent combined with perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements. Natalie Wihongi remains a significant figure in the world of makeup artistry, admired not only for her creative skills but also for her strength and independence.
FAQs About Natalie Wihongi
1. Who is Natalie Wihongi?
Natalie Wihongi is a talented makeup artist from New Zealand, best known for her work in the film industry and her previous marriage to actor Karl Urban. She has worked on various film projects and is recognized for her expertise in makeup artistry.
2. How did Natalie Wihongi start her career in makeup?
Natalie Wihongi began her career in makeup after completing a short course in makeup artistry following high school. She then moved to Los Angeles to pursue her career further and gained recognition after working on significant film projects, including “The Privateers.”
3. What are some notable projects that Natalie Wihongi has worked on?
Natalie Wihongi’s notable work includes her contributions to the movie “Rain” in 2001 and her role as a makeup artist on “The Privateers,” where she initially met Karl Urban. These projects helped establish her as a skilled makeup artist in Hollywood.
4. What is Natalie Wihongi’s relationship with Karl Urban?
Natalie Wihongi and Karl Urban were married in September 2004 after meeting on the set of “The Privateers.” They have two sons together, Hunter and Indiana. The couple separated in June 2014 but continue to co-parent their children.
5. How has Natalie Wihongi contributed to the makeup industry?
Natalie Wihongi has made significant contributions to the makeup industry through her innovative techniques and her ability to enhance natural beauty for film. Her work has influenced many aspiring makeup artists, and she is respected for her artistic skills and dedication to the craft.