Natalie Wihongi, a name often associated with New Zealand actor Karl Urban, is a talented makeup artist who has worked with numerous Hollywood celebrities. Despite her professional accolades, she is perhaps most recognized as the former spouse of Karl Urban, an actor famed for his roles in “Star Trek” and “The Lord of the Rings.” This article delves into the life and career of Natalie Wihongi, examining her early beginnings, her career trajectory, her failed marriage, and her life post-divorce.
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An Auckland Native: Early Life of Natalie Wihongi
Born in 1972 in Auckland, New Zealand, Natalie Wihongi’s early life remains largely shrouded in mystery. Details regarding her family background, including the identity of her parents and potential siblings, are sparse. However, it is known that she attended Epsom Girls Grammar School during her formative years, where she likely developed her passion for the arts.
Transition to Hollywood: Natalie’s Career in Makeup Artistry
Following her schooling, Wihongi chose to pursue her passion for the arts and beauty by embarking on a career in makeup artistry. Starting with local productions in New Zealand, she honed her skills until she was ready to explore opportunities in the United States.
Her first notable project came in 2000 when she worked on the set of the television film ‘The Privateers.’ This endeavor not only marked the beginning of Natalie’s career in Hollywood but also played a pivotal role in her personal life, as it was during this project that she first crossed paths with Karl Urban.
She continued to make strides in her career, working with the makeup department for the TV film ‘Rain’ in 2001. However, following her marriage to Urban, Natalie decided to step away from her thriving career to focus on her family.
A Hollywood Love Story: Natalie Wihongi and Karl Urban
Natalie’s meeting with Karl Urban on the set of ‘The Privateers’ sparked a whirlwind romance that quickly captivated the hearts of fans. This encounter led to a four-year courtship, after which the couple decided to tie the knot in 2004.
Their wedding, a grand affair attended by close friends, family, and a handful of celebrities, marked the beginning of a decade-long union. The couple’s first child, Hunter Urban, was born in December 2000, even before they exchanged wedding vows. Their second son, Indiana Urban, arrived a year after their wedding, in June 2005.
The End of an Era: Natalie Wihongi’s Divorce
After ten years of marriage, Natalie and Karl’s relationship started to crumble. The couple announced their separation in June 2014, much to the dismay of their fans. The reasons for their split remain undisclosed, leading to speculation among fans and media outlets.
Post-divorce, Natalie gained custody of their two children and decided to move back to New Zealand. Despite the divorce, both Natalie and Karl have maintained a low profile, focusing on minimizing the impact of their separation on their children.
Life After Karl: Natalie’s Current Status
Following her divorce, Natalie’s life took a turn away from the limelight. She currently resides in Auckland with her children and maintains a relatively private lifestyle. However, it’s known that she has found love again. Although the identity of her new partner remains unknown, the cosmetics artist has shared glimpses of her newfound happiness on social media.
Who is her former husband?
Karl-Heinz Urban, born on June 7, 1972, in Wellington, New Zealand, is a talented and versatile actor known for his chameleon-like ability to immerse himself in a wide range of roles across film and television. His career is marked by a dedication to his craft and an impressive body of work that has earned him recognition and respect in the entertainment industry.
Karl Urban’s passion for acting ignited during his childhood, and he made his first foray into the world of entertainment through local theater productions. His early television appearances in New Zealand paved the way for his eventual transition to international fame.
One of Urban’s breakout roles came in the early 2000s when he portrayed Éomer, a brave and noble warrior, in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. His compelling performance in this epic fantasy series garnered attention and laid the foundation for a successful career in Hollywood.
Urban’s versatility as an actor shone through as he seamlessly shifted between genres. He embraced the science fiction realm by taking on the role of Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy in the “Star Trek” reboot series, a portrayal praised for its homage to the original character while adding a fresh dimension. His stoic portrayal of Judge Dredd in “Dredd” (2012) was another testament to his ability to embody iconic characters.
Television audiences also know Karl Urban for his role as Billy Butcher in the critically acclaimed TV series “The Boys.” His performance as a vigilante leader in a world filled with corrupt superheroes showcases his range and intensity as an actor.
Throughout his career, Karl Urban has been celebrated for his dedication to his roles, often undergoing physical transformations and extensive research to fully inhabit his characters. His commitment to his craft has earned him the admiration of both peers and fans.
Beyond acting, Urban has been involved in various charitable endeavors and has actively supported causes like child advocacy and animal welfare.
Karl Urban’s journey from the theaters of New Zealand to the stages of Hollywood is a testament to his talent, versatility, and unwavering dedication to his craft. With a portfolio that spans genres and generations, he remains a respected figure in the world of entertainment, leaving an indelible mark on both the big and small screens.
The Spotlight on Natalie Wihongi’s Children
Natalie’s two sons, Hunter and Indiana Urban, have grown into fine young men. Hunter, an animal lover, is often seen sharing his love for dogs on Instagram. He also exhibits a knack for fishing, frequently showcasing his skills on social media.
Indiana, on the other hand, has kept a relatively low profile compared to his older brother. Named after the iconic ‘Indiana Jones’ franchise, there’s no denying that the young lad has a touch of Hollywood in his blood.
Natalie Wihongi’s Net Worth
Despite her retreat from Hollywood, Natalie’s years as a makeup artist have served her well financially. It is estimated that Natalie Wihongi’s net worth stands at a robust $1 million, a testament to her successful career in the industry.
In contrast, her ex-husband, Karl Urban, boasts a net worth of $20 million, a figure accrued from his long and illustrious acting career.
The Enigmatic Natalie Wihongi: A Private Life
While she gained fame through her marriage to Karl Urban, the New Zealander has managed to maintain an air of mystery about her life. Shying away from the public eye, she lives a quiet life in Auckland with her two sons and new partner.
Although Natalie Wihongi’s life has taken a turn away from Hollywood, her story remains a captivating tale of a talented makeup artist who found, and lost, love in the glitz and glamour of the film industry. Despite the trials and tribulations, she has found a way to carve out a peaceful life for herself and her children.
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