Hanne Norgaard, born on April 5, 1977, in the United Kingdom, is a multifaceted personality celebrated for her prowess as a make-up artist, entrepreneur, and writer. While many may recognize her as the first wife of renowned English actor Idris Elba, Hanne Norgaard has crafted an illustrious career in the beauty and entertainment industries in her own right.
Her journey intertwines with the world of glamour and creativity, marked by her early endeavors as a model and subsequent evolution into a distinguished make-up artist. Beyond the glitz of Hollywood and her connection to Idris Elba, Hanne Norgaard stands out as the founder of ‘Make Up Your Mind,’ a beauty initiative that has left an indelible mark on the industry.
Hanne Norgaard Wiki
| Full name | Hanne Kim Norgaard |
| Gender | Female |
| Age | 46 years (as of May 2023) |
| Date of birth | 5th April 1977 |
| Birthplace | United Kingdom |
| Zodiac sign | Aries |
| Nationality | British-American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Ethnicity | African-Asian |
| Sexual orientation | Straight |
| Body measurements | 34-28-35 inches or 86-71-89 cm |
| Hair colour | Black |
| Eye colour | Dark brown |
| Weight | 61 kg or 131 lbs |
| Height | 158 cm or 5’1″ |
| Parents | Kyue Nam Kim (mother) |
| Famous as | Idris Elba’s ex-wife |
| Marital status | Married |
| Spouse | Pastor Andrew L. Friar II, (2013–to date), Idris Elba (1999–2003) |
| Children | 1 (Isan Elba) |
| Profession | Makeup artist, businesswoman, writer |
| Net worth | $900,000 |
| Social media |
Childhood and Early Life of Hanne Norgaard
Hanne Norgaard’s journey began on April 5, 1977, when she was born in the United Kingdom. Her multicultural heritage adds a unique dimension to her identity, with an African-American father and a mother hailing from South Korea. This blend of backgrounds contributes to the rich tapestry of Hanne’s life and influences her perspectives in both personal and professional spheres.
In 1999, at the age of 22, Hanne embarked on a transformative chapter of her life by relocating to the United States alongside her then-husband, the acclaimed actor Idris Elba. This move was fueled by dreams of a shared life and promising opportunities in the entertainment industry. Together, they envisioned a future in America, yet the path ahead held unexpected turns for the couple.
Physically, Hanne Norgaard stands at 5’2″ tall and maintains a weight of 55 kg, embodying a presence that complements her dynamic career in the world of beauty and fashion.
Education
Hanne’s pursuit of excellence in the realm of beauty and cosmetics is underscored by her comprehensive education in makeup artistry. From 2004 to 2006, she honed her craft at the S.C Institute in Washington, DC, where she earned a distinguished diploma in makeup artistry. This period marked a crucial phase in her professional development, laying the groundwork for the skills that would later define her career.
Building on this foundation, Hanne sought further mastery by undertaking studies at the International Makeup Artist Academy in Europe. Her commitment to excellence was evident as she not only pursued makeup but also delved into the intricacies of hair styling, nail artistry, and special effects. Her dedication culminated in the receipt of a diploma with the highest honors, signifying not only technical proficiency but a commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
Career of Hanne Norgaard
Early Modeling Career and Transition to Makeup Artistry
Hanne Norgaard’s professional journey commenced with a foray into the world of modeling during her teenage years. Fueled by a desire to explore the world, she ventured to London independently, where her modeling pursuits began to unfold. However, recognizing the importance of a solid education, Hanne heeded her parents’ advice to study makeup artistry, ensuring her sustained presence in the beauty and fashion realm that captivated her.
Notable Collaborations
Hanne’s career soared to new heights immediately after graduating with honors from the “International Artist Make Up Academy” in London in 1992. Within the first week post-graduation, she secured a coveted position with BBC, marking the initiation of her impactful journey in the entertainment industry. Subsequent collaborations with major entities like Columbia Tristar, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and Sean Combs underscored her expertise and versatility as a makeup artist.
Key Roles in Columbia Tristar Projects
Her skills were showcased prominently in pivotal roles as the key makeup artist for significant Columbia Tristar projects, contributing to the visual allure of major productions underlining her technical prowess and artistic vision.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
In 2007, Hanne Norgaard embarked on a new chapter in her career with the launch of the ‘Make Up Your Mind’ beauty initiative. This venture, marked by a team of expert makeup artists and hairstylists, offered a diverse range of makeup services. Noteworthy among them were services like accompanying clients on shoots, various hair styling techniques, and personal styling. A distinctive feature of this initiative was the introduction of makeup parties, providing women with the opportunity to learn makeup techniques and enhance their holiday looks.
‘Kim Elba Cosmetics’
Adding another feather to her entrepreneurial cap, Hanne introduced ‘Kim Elba Cosmetics,’ her own line of paraben-free and cruelty-free cosmetics. This venture not only attested to her commitment to quality but also echoed her belief that every face is uniquely beautiful, and makeup should serve to enhance that inherent beauty.
‘My Black is Beautiful’ Event
From 2009 onwards, Hanne has been actively associated with the ‘My Black is Beautiful’ event, where her role as a makeup artist and advisor aligns with the event’s mission to celebrate the beauty of black culture and challenge societal perceptions of beauty.
Personal Life of Hanne Kim Norgaard
Marriage and Family with Idris Elba
Hanne Norgaard’s personal life is interwoven with significant relationships and transformative experiences. In 1999, she embarked on a journey of matrimony with English actor Idris Elba. Their union was marked by the joyous arrival of their daughter, Isan Elba, in 2002. The family’s relocation to New York in 1999 was driven by shared aspirations for enhanced career opportunities and a harmonious life together in the United States.
Separation, Friendship, and Co-Parenting
However, the path of love proved to have unexpected turns, leading to the couple’s separation in 2003, a year after the birth of Isan. Despite the challenges that often accompany such life changes, Norgaard and Idris Elba chose to redefine their relationship, opting to remain friends and prioritize co-parenting. Their public appearances together, such as celebrating their daughter’s 16th birthday in 2018, attest to a commitment to nurturing a positive family dynamic.
Marriage to Pastor Andrew L. Friar II
In 2013, after a decade of singlehood following her divorce from Idris Elba, Hanne Norgaard found love again. She married Pastor Andrew L. Friar II, and their union was commemorated with a romantic yacht cruise. Expressing her deep admiration and gratitude, Hanne highlighted her husband’s qualities, including his love for God, patience, understanding, and confidence. This marriage marked a chapter of happiness and companionship in Hanne’s personal narrative.
Isan Elba’s Revelation
The personal journey of Norgaard took a vulnerable turn when her daughter, Isan Elba, spoke openly in a 2019 interview about her mother’s battle with mental health issues. Isan revealed that Hanne had been diagnosed with bipolar depression, depression, and chronic anxiety. This revelation not only humanizes the public figure but also underscores the importance of destigmatizing mental health discussions.
Family of Hanne Kim Norgaard
Norgaard’s family tapestry is woven with diverse threads, reflecting her multicultural heritage and the bonds that have shaped her life.
Parental Background
Hanne’s roots trace back to an African-American father and a South Korean mother, creating a rich and unique blend of cultural influences. While specific details about her parents remain undisclosed, it is clear that her upbringing was steeped in the richness of two distinct worlds—African and Asian.
Daughter, Isan Elba
The central figure in Hanne’s immediate family is her daughter, Isan Elba. Born in 2002 during Hanne’s marriage to Idris Elba, Isan has been a focal point of their family dynamics. Despite the changes in Hanne’s marital status over the years, her commitment to co-parenting with Idris is evident in their shared celebrations, such as publicly marking Isan’s 16th birthday in 2018. Isan’s revelation about her mother’s mental health struggles further underscores the importance of familial support and understanding.
Public Perception and Media Appearances
Norgaard’s public image is characterized by a unique blend of a low-profile demeanor and strategic engagements within the beauty and entertainment industry.
Low-Profile Approach
Despite her significant contributions to the beauty industry and her connections to high-profile figures, Hanne Norgaard maintains a low-profile approach. Her work as a makeup artist and entrepreneur, while impactful, is executed with a quiet confidence that sets her apart in an industry often marked by flamboyance. This intentional low-key presence allows her professional achievements to take center stage, emphasizing substance over spectacle.
Reality TV Appearances
In contrast to her preference for privacy, Hanne has made select appearances on reality television, most notably in ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta.’ This platform provided glimpses into her life, showcasing the balance between her professional commitments and personal relationships. These appearances allowed audiences a rare insight into the life of a woman navigating the intersection of glamour and reality.
Recognition and Awards
Norgaard’s impact on the beauty and entertainment industry was formally recognized in 2016 when she received the BEFFTA Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious accolade celebrated her enduring contributions to the field and acknowledged the lasting imprint she has left on the beauty landscape. The award not only honored her individual achievements but also underscored the significance of her work within the broader context of the industry.
Conclusion
In tracing the trajectory of Norgaard’s life, from her early days as a model to her prominence as a makeup artist and entrepreneur, a compelling narrative of resilience and accomplishment emerges.
Recap of Hanne Norgaard’s Journey
Hanne Norgaard, born on April 5, 1977, in the United Kingdom, has navigated a life marked by multicultural influences and diverse career milestones. Her foray into the beauty industry began with modeling but quickly evolved into a flourishing career as a makeup artist, marked by collaborations with industry giants like BBC, Columbia Tristar, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and Sean Combs.
Beyond her professional achievements, Hanne’s personal life has been characterized by significant relationships, including her marriage to Idris Elba, the birth of their daughter Isan, and later, a second marriage to Pastor Andrew L. Friar II. The challenges she faced, such as the public revelation of her mental health struggles, showcase the depth and complexity of her journey.
Emphasis on Resilience
Hanne Norgaard’s resilience is evident in every chapter of her life. Whether navigating the intricacies of relationships, co-parenting with Idris Elba, or steering her own businesses, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to personal growth and professional excellence. Her ability to maintain a low-profile amidst the glitz of the entertainment industry speaks volumes about her focus on substance and authenticity.
The launch of ‘Make Up Your Mind,’ the creation of ‘Kim Elba Cosmetics,’ and her association with events like ‘My Black is Beautiful’ underscore her commitment to empowering individuals through beauty. Even in the face of personal challenges, Hanne’s journey serves as an inspiration for resilience, reminding us that strength is often found in the balance of vulnerability and tenacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who is Idris’s first wife?
Ans: Hanne Norgaard, in 1999, got engaged to Idris Elba.
Q. Who is Winston Elba’s mother?
Ans: Naiyana Garth
Q. How old is Elba?
Ans: 50 Years old.