What happened to Atila Altaunbay, Grace Jones’ ex-husband? [Explained]
Atila Altaunbay, known primarily for his marriage to iconic singer Grace Jones, passed away unexpectedly in October 2021. While details surrounding his death remain private, his life story is a fascinating one, encompassing careers in modeling, music, and philanthropy.
Who is Atila Altaunbay?
Born in Turkey in 1976, Atila Altaunbay grew up immersed in his cultural heritage. After completing his education, he ventured to Belgium to pursue further studies. Beyond his marriage to Grace Jones, Atila carved his own path, working as a model, a singer, and even a professional bodyguard. However, his philanthropic efforts garnered significant respect. He served as the president of Helping Hands Belgium, a charity dedicated to fighting poverty and inequality.
Atila Altaunbay’s Marriage to Grace Jones
Atila met the legendary singer Grace Jones in the mid-1990s. Their whirlwind romance culminated in a marriage in 1996. The significant age difference – Jones was nearly twice Atila’s age – and their contrasting backgrounds sparked considerable public interest. The couple’s life together was often in the spotlight, with media scrutiny following their every move.
While their union initially appeared glamorous, behind the scenes, the relationship reportedly faced challenges. After eight years of marriage, Atila and Grace divorced in 2004. Details regarding the reasons for their split remain undisclosed.
Tragic Death of Atila Altaunbay
The news of Atila Altaunbay’s passing in October 2021 came as a shock. He was only 45 years old. The official cause of death was never publicly revealed, leaving many with unanswered questions.
Atila’s funeral was held at the Antwerpen Mehmet Akif Mosque in Belgium, attended by his family and close friends. The Helping Hands Belgium organization paid tribute to their former president, highlighting his dedication to social causes.
While Atila’s life was tragically cut short, his impact on those around him is undeniable. His work with Helping Hands Belgium serves as a testament to his compassionate nature and desire to make a positive difference.
Conclusion
Atila Altaunbay lived a multifaceted life, achieving success in various fields. Though his marriage to Grace Jones brought him into the public eye, his philanthropic work stands as his most significant contribution. The cause of his untimely death remains a mystery, but his memory continues to be cherished by those who knew him.