Natalie Wihongi may not be a household name to those outside the film and makeup artistry circles, but her significant contributions to the cinematic world have made her a revered figure among those who know her work. Born in Auckland, New Zealand, on March 8, 1972, Wihongi has turned her passion for makeup into a distinguished career, touching the lives of many through her artistry on the silver screen.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| 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
Natalie Wihongi’s journey began in the scenic landscapes of Auckland, where she was raised in a nurturing environment that valued creativity and education. Her parents, a businessman and a housewife, provided a stable family background and encouraged her artistic pursuits. Natalie attended Epsom Girls Grammar School, a prestigious institution in Auckland that further honed her artistic talents. After completing her secondary education, she pursued higher studies at a private university in Auckland, where she graduated with a keen interest in the creative arts. The call of the wider world led her to Los Angeles, California, where she aimed to forge a path in Hollywood, the global epicenter of movie production and glamour.
Career Highlights
Upon arriving in Los Angeles, Natalie took a short course in makeup artistry that ignited a lifelong passion. Her early career was marked by a blend of determination and timely opportunities, leading to her first significant role as a makeup artist on the set of the film “The Privateers” in 2000. It was during this project that she met actor Karl Urban, who would later become her husband. This opportunity was a pivotal moment in her career, setting the stage for future successes.
Over the years, Wihongi has showcased her talent on various film sets, contributing to both the aesthetic and storytelling aspects of film through her makeup artistry. Her work includes contributions to the movie “Rain” in 2001, where she further refined her skills and established her reputation as a skilled makeup artist in the competitive Hollywood industry.
Personal Life, Marriage And Children
Natalie’s personal life has been as eventful as her career. Her relationship with Karl Urban blossomed on the set of “The Privateers,” where their initial meeting grew into a deep personal and professional connection. The couple married and had two children, Hunter and Indiana Urban, with Indiana’s name inspired by Karl’s admiration for the “Indiana Jones” series. Natalie and Karl’s life together was shared between New Zealand and Hollywood, balancing their professional commitments with their family life. However, in 2014, they announced their separation. Despite this personal setback, Natalie has continued to focus on her career and children, maintaining a strong and resilient front.
Who is Karl Urban?
Karl Urban is a distinguished New Zealand actor born on June 7, 1972, in Wellington. He has made significant marks in the entertainment industry with his versatile acting skills across various genres including action, sci-fi, drama, and fantasy. Urban gained international recognition for his role as Éomer in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy and further solidified his reputation by portraying Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy in the “Star Trek” reboot films.
He also starred in the title role of the film adaptation of “Dredd.” Beyond films, Urban has had a successful television career, notable for his roles in “Almost Human” and as Billy Butcher in the critically acclaimed series “The Boys.” His dynamic performances and commanding presence have made him one of the most celebrated actors from New Zealand on the global stage.
Natalie’s Divorce From Karl Urban
Natalie Wihongi and Karl Urban announced their separation in June 2014 after a decade of marriage. The couple, who had met on the set of the film “The Privateers,” where Natalie worked as a makeup artist and Karl was an actor, expressed their commitment to maintaining a positive family environment for their children despite the dissolution of their marriage. They sought to minimize the impact of their separation on their two sons and refrained from divulging extensive details about their split.
Following their divorce, speculation arose regarding Karl’s subsequent romantic involvement with his “Riddick” co-star, Katee Sackhoff, which some speculated might have influenced the breakdown of his marriage to Natalie. However, such matters often remain private, and the true reasons behind their separation are best known to those directly involved. The respect for their privacy is paramount, especially given the public nature of their careers.
Natalie Wihongi’s Influence on the Makeup Industry
Natalie Wihongi’s influence in the makeup industry is profound. Her ability to create diverse looks that perfectly match the tone and setting of a film has made her a go-to makeup artist in Hollywood. Her expertise not only enhances the visual appeal of characters but also helps in defining them, which is crucial for the storytelling process. Young artists and seasoned professionals alike look up to her for inspiration, and her techniques are often discussed in various makeup artistry forums and workshops.
Public and Media Perception
The public and media perception of Natalie Wihongi is largely positive, with many praising her professionalism and the subtle artistry of her work. Interviews and articles often highlight her down-to-earth personality and her dedication to her craft. Despite the challenges that come with a career in Hollywood, Natalie has maintained a reputation as a committed and innovative makeup artist.
Current Projects and Future Plans
As of the latest updates, Natalie continues to work on various film projects, each presenting new challenges and opportunities for creative expression. Her future in the industry looks promising with several upcoming projects that promise to showcase her evolving artistry. She remains a respected figure in makeup artistry, continually pushing the boundaries of her craft.
Net Worth and Achievements
Natalie Wihongi’s success is also reflected in her financial achievements, with an estimated net worth of $1 million. This financial success is a testament to her skill, dedication, and the demand for her expertise in an industry where the visual presentation of characters is key to the success of productions.
Conclusion
Natalie Wihongi’s journey from the quiet streets of Auckland to the bright lights of Hollywood is a story of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of artistic excellence. Her work has not only beautified the faces of actors but also brought characters to life, enhancing the storytelling of numerous films. As she continues to inspire new generations of makeup artists, her legacy in the makeup industry is secured, marked by both her artistic and personal resilience.
FAQs About Natalie Wihongi
1. Who is Natalie Wihongi?
Natalie Wihongi is a professional makeup artist from New Zealand, renowned for her work in Hollywood. She gained additional fame through her marriage to actor Karl Urban. Over the years, she has worked on numerous film projects, showcasing her exceptional makeup skills that contribute significantly to character development and visual storytelling in movies.
2. What are some notable projects that Natalie Wihongi has worked on?
Natalie Wihongi has worked on several important film projects. One of her first major roles was in the movie “The Privateers,” where she also met her future husband, Karl Urban. She was also involved in the makeup department for the film “Rain” in 2001, which further established her reputation in the industry.
3. Is Natalie Wihongi married?
Natalie Wihongi was married to Karl Urban, a well-known actor from New Zealand. They met on the set of “The Privateers” and married after a few years of dating. The couple has two sons, Hunter and Indiana Urban. However, Natalie and Karl announced their separation in 2014 and have since divorced.
4. How did Natalie Wihongi start her career in makeup artistry?
Natalie Wihongi began her career in makeup artistry after completing a short course in makeup following her high school education. Motivated by her passion for the craft and the opportunities in the entertainment industry, she moved to Los Angeles, USA, where she began to establish herself as a professional makeup artist in Hollywood.
5. What is Natalie Wihongi’s net worth?
Natalie Wihongi’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. This figure is a reflection of her successful career as a makeup artist in the film industry, where she has worked on a variety of significant projects, earning both acclaim and financial success through her artistic contributions.
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