Celebrity

Who Is Natalie Wihongi?: The Untold Story of Karl Urban’s Ex-Wife

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4 months ago

September 29, 2024

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Natalie Wihongi is far more than just a famous ex-spouse in the glittering world of Hollywood; she is a revered makeup artist whose skilled hands have touched the faces of numerous stars and shaped the aesthetic of various cinematic projects. Her journey from the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand to the high-paced film sets of Los Angeles reflects not only a profound commitment to her craft but also the tale of a woman who built a commendable career on passion, skill, and relentless dedication.

Table of Contents

Quick Bio

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’’ (160 cm)
Weight	60 kg
Ethnicity	Caucasian
Religion	Christianity
Relationship Status	Divorced
Net Worth	$1 million

Early Life and Education

Born on March 8, 1972, in Auckland, New Zealand, Natalie Wihongi grew up in a family that provided a strong support system from the start. The urban vibes of Auckland combined with the nurturing environment of her home, where her father was a businessman and her mother a housewife, laid the foundational values of hard work and creativity. She attended Epsom Girls Grammar School, a place known for its encouragement of artistic pursuits among its students. Following her secondary education, Natalie ventured into higher studies at a prestigious private university in Auckland, where she began to mold her future in the arts.

Age and Physical Appearance

Natalie Wihongi

Natalie Wihongi, born on March 8, 1972, is 51 years old. She has a striking appearance, characterized by blonde hair, hazel eyes, and a fair complexion. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches and weighing around 60 kg, Natalie maintains a youthful and vibrant look, reflecting her expertise in beauty and self-care.

Career Beginnings

Natalie’s career in makeup artistry commenced shortly after her academic pursuits. She undertook a short course in makeup that sparked a deep-seated passion for the craft, transforming it from a mere interest into a full-fledged career goal. Her bold decision to move to Los Angeles, the hub of all things cinema and television, marked the beginning of her professional journey. It was in this city of stars that Natalie started to make her mark, working her way up through the competitive ranks of Hollywood makeup artists.

Breakthrough and Career Milestones

The year 2000 was a significant one for Natalie as it brought her first major project, “The Privateers,” where she not only showcased her makeup skills but also met her future husband, Karl Urban. Working closely with actors on set, she gained invaluable experience and exposure, which opened up more opportunities in the industry. Over the years, Natalie has contributed her expertise to numerous films, enhancing character portrayals with her makeup artistry. Her ability to create a range of looks, from the subtly natural to the extravagantly fictional, has made her a favorite among directors and actors alike.

Notable Works and Contributions

One of Natalie’s significant contributions was on the movie “Rain” in 2001, where she was instrumental in developing the visual tone through her makeup work. Her portfolio includes a diverse array of projects that showcase her versatility and commitment to the art form. Each character brought to life through her makeup tells a story of meticulous planning and understanding of visual aesthetics, making her an unsung hero behind the cinematic curtain.

Meeting and Marriage with Karl Urban

Natalie Wihongi

Natalie Wihongi met Karl Urban on the set of the film “The Privateers” in 2000, where she worked as a makeup artist and he was the lead actor. Their professional relationship quickly blossomed into a romantic one, setting the stage for a deep and personal connection. The couple’s shared interests and passions for the creative arts deepened their bond, leading to their marriage in September 2004.

This union marked a significant chapter in both their lives, combining their personal and professional worlds in a partnership that celebrated their mutual love for the film industry and family. Their wedding symbolized not just the joining of two individuals but also the beginning of a family journey together, welcoming their first child, Hunter, before their marriage, and their second, Indiana, shortly after.

Who Is Karl Urban?

Karl Urban is a distinguished actor from New Zealand, renowned for his versatility and dynamic roles across various genres of film and television. Born on June 7, 1972, in Wellington, New Zealand, Urban’s career gained significant traction with his portrayal of Éomer in the critically acclaimed “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.

He further solidified his Hollywood presence with roles such as Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy in the “Star Trek” reboot films and the titular character in the “Dredd” movie. In addition to his cinematic work, Urban has made a substantial impact on television, starring in shows like “Almost Human” and the popular series “The Boys,” where he plays the lead role of Billy Butcher. His ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters has made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike.

Natalie Wihongi Children

Natalie Wihongi

Natalie Wihongi and Karl Urban announced their separation in June 2014, after nearly a decade of marriage. Despite their high-profile status, they managed to handle their divorce with considerable discretion and mutual respect, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining a positive and supportive environment for their two sons. The couple released a joint statement regarding their separation, choosing not to divulge the reasons for their split to the public, but rather focusing on their dedication to their family and the well-being of their children during this transition. Following their divorce, both Natalie and Karl have continued their respective careers while co-parenting their children, demonstrating their ability to prioritize family amidst personal changes.

Challenges and Overcomings

Like many in the competitive world of film and television, Natalie faced numerous challenges, from the pressure of creating time-bound yet creative looks on set to managing work-life balance. However, her resilience in the face of these challenges has only strengthened her reputation as a dependable and innovative makeup artist.

Natalie Wihongi’s Impact and Legacy

Natalie Wihongi has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the makeup industry. Her work has not only contributed to the success of many films but has also inspired a new generation of makeup artists. Her legacy is characterized by a dedication to artistry and an unwavering commitment to bringing characters to life through the transformative power of makeup.

Current Projects and Future Aspirations

Currently, Natalie continues to work on various film and television projects, each presenting new challenges and opportunities to redefine beauty and expression through makeup. Her future in the industry looks bright, with several exciting projects lined up that promise to further cement her status as a leading makeup artist.

Natalie Wihongi Net Worth

Natalie Wihongi has built a successful career as a makeup artist in the competitive film industry, which has significantly contributed to her financial independence. Her net worth is estimated to be around $1 million, a testament to her talent, hard work, and dedication to her craft. This wealth has been amassed through her contributions to various high-profile movie projects where she applied her makeup artistry skills. Natalie’s financial standing not only reflects her professional success but also her ability to thrive in a demanding industry, maintaining a solid reputation over the years.

Conclusion

Natalie Wihongi’s artistic journey in Hollywood is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and the impact one individual can have on the creative outputs of a highly collaborative industry. As she continues to inspire and innovate, Natalie remains not just a notable figure in makeup artistry but a role model for aspiring artists everywhere.

FAQs About Natalie Wihongi

What is Natalie Wihongi best known for?
Natalie Wihongi is best known as a talented makeup artist in the film industry, having worked on several notable projects. Although she is also recognized for her previous marriage to actor Karl Urban, her professional achievements in makeup artistry stand out in her career.

How did Natalie Wihongi start her career in makeup artistry?
Natalie began her career in makeup artistry after completing a short course post-high school. Her passion for the craft led her to move to Los Angeles, where she established herself as a makeup artist in Hollywood, working on various film and television projects.

Has Natalie Wihongi won any awards for her makeup work?
While there is no public record of specific awards for her makeup work, Natalie Wihongi is highly regarded in the industry for her contributions to numerous film projects, demonstrating a level of skill and creativity that is widely respected among her peers.

What are some of Natalie Wihongi’s most notable projects?
Natalie Wihongi has worked on several films, with “The Privateers” and “Rain” being among her most notable projects. Her role as a makeup artist in these films has been pivotal in defining the visual aesthetic of the characters.

How did Natalie Wihongi meet Karl Urban?
Natalie met Karl Urban on the set of “The Privateers,” where she was the makeup artist and he was an actor. Their professional relationship evolved into a personal one, leading to their marriage in 2004.

What can you tell us about Natalie Wihongi’s family?
Natalie Wihongi and Karl Urban have two sons together, Hunter and Indiana Urban. The family previously lived together in Auckland, New Zealand, before Natalie and Karl’s separation.

Is Natalie Wihongi still working as a makeup artist?
Yes, Natalie Wihongi continues to work as a makeup artist. She remains active in the industry, taking on projects that showcase her talent and expertise in makeup artistry for film and television.

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