Who is Atila Altaunbay?: The Untold Story Of Grace Jones’ ex-husband

In the landscape of celebrity relationships, few are as intriguing and enigmatic as the marriage between the iconic Grace Jones and her lesser-known ex-husband, Atila Altaunbay. Altaunbay, a Turkish bodyguard who married the superstar singer, has remained a figure shrouded in mystery long after their separation. This article aims to shed light on his life, exploring everything from his early years to his abrupt retreat from public view following his marriage to Jones.

Quick Bio

Early Life and Background

Atila Altaunbay was born in 1976 in Turkey into a Muslim family. His upbringing was steeped in the rich cultural heritage of his homeland, which played a significant role in shaping his personal and ethical beliefs. Details about his early life are sparse, as Altaunbay has always been a private individual, but it is known that he had a profound connection with his cultural roots and a strong sense of family values.

How Old Is Atila Altaunbay?

Physical Attributes

Atila Altaunbay stood at a height of 5 feet 7 inches (170 centimeters) and weighed around 150 pounds (68 kilograms). He had a solid build, characteristic of his profession as a bodyguard. His physical presence was marked by his dark brown eyes and black hair, features that complemented his Middle Eastern heritage.

Career Before Grace Jones

Before his encounter with fame through Grace Jones, Altaunbay’s life was markedly different. He began his career far from the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry, working as a pizza delivery driver in Belgium. His passion for the performing arts was evident even then, as he juggled his job with attempts at modeling and singing at local events. His professional life took a significant turn when he trained as a bodyguard, a role that eventually led him to meet his future wife.

Meeting Grace Jones

Altaunbay met Grace Jones in the late 1990s during one of her trips to Belgium. At the time, he was working as a bodyguard at a nightclub. Jones, who was already a well-established figure in the music and fashion industries, was immediately struck by Altaunbay’s robust presence and his professional demeanor. The story of their meeting reads like a fairy tale; the famous singer meeting the tall, handsome bodyguard, a meeting that swiftly blossomed into romance.

Who Is Grace Jones?: Atila Altaunbay Ex-Wife

Grace Jones is a Jamaican-American singer, songwriter, model, and actress known for her distinctive androgynous appearance, bold features, and fierce persona. Born on May 19, 1948, in Spanish Town, Jamaica, she moved to Syracuse, New York, during her teenage years. Grace Jones gained fame in the 1970s and 1980s as a model, working with major fashion houses and appearing on the covers of prominent magazines.

She transitioned into music and became famous for hits like “Pull Up to the Bumper” and “Slave to the Rhythm.” Grace’s impactful music style blends reggae, funk, and pop, making her a prominent figure in the disco and new wave scenes. Her bold style and daring performances have made her an iconic figure in the entertainment industry.

Marriage to Grace Jones

In 1996, Grace Jones and Atila Altaunbay tied the knot in a private ceremony in Rio de Janeiro. The wedding was as unconventional as the couple themselves, designed to stay out of the public eye. However, they later discovered that their marriage did not comply with all legal and religious norms, leading them to reaffirm their vows in a more private setting in Syracuse, New York. Despite the celebration of their love, their union was met with skepticism and disapproval from Altaunbay’s family due to the significant age difference and differing cultural backgrounds.

Challenges and Controversies

The marriage between Jones and Altaunbay was not without its trials and tribulations. The couple faced intense media scrutiny and public interest, which often put a strain on their relationship. Their differences became more apparent over time, with reports of disputes and disagreements becoming frequent. The turning point came when Altaunbay allegedly threatened Jones during an argument, a serious incident that marked the beginning of the end of their marriage.

Life After Grace Jones

After his separation from Jones, Altaunbay chose to step away from the limelight and lead a quieter life. He moved to Belgium, where he lived out of the public eye. Little is known about his activities during this period, but it is believed that he continued his work as a bodyguard while also dedicating time to personal interests and perhaps continuing his involvement in philanthropy.

Philanthropy and Later Life

Altaunbay’s philanthropic efforts, particularly those after his separation from Jones, highlight a man committed to making a difference. He was reportedly involved with Helping Hand Belgium, an organization dedicated to fighting inequality and poverty. His work with the organization showed his dedication to humanitarian causes and his desire to contribute positively to society.

Death and Legacy

Atila Altaunbay passed away in 2021 at the age of 45. The news of his death was confirmed by a post from Helping Hand Belgium, which praised his service and commitment to humanitarian work. His death was mourned by those who knew him, and he was remembered as a person of depth and complexity, whose life story was intertwined with moments of both prominence and profound privacy.

Atila Altaunbay’s Networth

Atila Altaunbay, known for his marriage to singer Grace Jones, had an estimated net worth of around $800,000. His earnings came from various roles, including work as a bodyguard, model, and singer. Before meeting Jones, he worked as a pizza delivery driver in Belgium and later became her bodyguard, which led to their relationship. After their separation, he lived a private life in Belgium, focusing on philanthropic activities.

Conclusion

Atila Altaunbay’s life was full of contrasts, from his humble beginnings in Turkey to his marriage with one of the most flamboyant figures in the entertainment industry. Despite the public’s fascination with his relationship with Grace Jones, Altaunbay remained a mysterious figure, dedicated to his privacy and his later philanthropic pursuits. His story is a reminder of the complexities that lie behind the public personas of those connected to celebrity, revealing a man who navigated his path with a mixture of boldness and discretion.

FAQs about Atila Altaunbay

1. Who was Atila Altaunbay?
Atila Altaunbay was a Turkish national who gained fame through his marriage to iconic singer and actress Grace Jones. He worked as a bodyguard, model, and occasionally as a singer.

2. How did Atila Altaunbay meet Grace Jones?
Atila Altaunbay met Grace Jones while working as a bodyguard at a club in Belgium. Their relationship started professionally and soon blossomed into a romantic involvement, leading to their marriage in 1996.

3. What was the age difference between Atila Altaunbay and Grace Jones?
There was a significant age difference of 27 years between Atila Altaunbay and Grace Jones. Altaunbay was born in 1976, making him much younger than Jones, who was born in 1948.

4. Why did Atila Altaunbay and Grace Jones separate?
Atila Altaunbay and Grace Jones separated due to a number of challenges, including cultural differences and personal disagreements. The relationship reportedly faced significant strains, culminating in an incident where Altaunbay allegedly threatened Jones, which contributed to their separation.

5. Is Atila Altaunbay still alive?
Atila Altaunbay reportedly passed away in 2021 at the age of 45. His death was announced by Helping Hand Belgium, a charitable organization with which he was associated. The cause of death was not publicly disclosed.

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