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Atila Altaunbay, an enigmatic figure in the public eye, is often remembered as the husband of the iconic singer, model, and actress Grace Jones. However, there is much more to Altaunbay than his connection to this legendary artist. His life is a fascinating story of contrasts—rising from humble beginnings in Turkey to becoming a well-known bodyguard, singer, and philanthropist, while simultaneously navigating the complexities of culture, family, and love.
Born in 1976 in Turkey, Altaunbay’s journey took him far from his roots, leading him to Europe, and eventually into the spotlight, thanks to his marriage to Grace Jones. In this comprehensive article, we delve deeply into the life of Atila Altaunbay, his early years, the rise of his career, his marriage to Grace Jones, the challenges he faced, and his enduring legacy after his passing in 2021.
Quick Bio: Atila Altaunbay
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full name | Atila Altaunbay |
| Born | 1976, in Turkey |
| Nationality | Turkish |
| Early life | Raised Muslim; lived later in Belgium |
| Professions | Bodyguard, singer, model, philanthropist |
| Famous marriage | Married singer Grace Jones in 1996 |
| Marriage ended | Separated around 2004; no official divorce |
| Death | October 2021, aged 45; in Belgium |
| Net worth | Around USD 800,000 |
1. Early Life and Background
Atila Altaunbay was born in 1976 in Turkey, into a Muslim Arab family. Later, he moved to Belgium, where he spent much of his youth and grew up. In Belgium, he learned skills such as martial arts, CPR, and AED training, which helped him start working as a bodyguard.
He also tried many jobs. He worked as a pizza delivery boy, and he loved the performing arts. He modelled, acted, and even sang at weddings or small events.
2. Meeting Grace Jones and Their Marriage
In the late 1980s, while working as her bodyguard in Belgium, Atila met Grace Jones, a famous singer, model, and actress born in Jamaica in 1948. They worked together first, and then their relationship grew into love.
In 1996, Grace Jones, aged 48, married Atila, then 21 or 22 years old, a 27-year age difference that drew attention from many people. They said their vows in Rio de Janeiro, but because the ceremony did not meet church rules (the priest was later found to be gay), they had a second, private ceremony in Syracuse, New York, led by Grace’s father.
Atila’s family in Turkey did not approve of the marriage. As the youngest son, he was expected to wait until his older brothers married. Because he went against these traditions, he lost contact with them.
3. Their Life Together and Separation
At first, Grace and Atila seemed happy together. Atila stepped into the role of stepfather for Grace’s son, Paulo Goude, from a past relationship, though Atila and Grace had no children together.
Still, their marriage had serious problems. They fought about Grace’s interactions with other men. Tensions grew, and an especially worrying moment happened when Atila allegedly threatened Grace with a knife. This incident made Grace feel unsafe, and it marked the end of their relationship.
By 2004, they separated without an official divorce. Grace said publicly she could not find Atila to begin the legal process of divorce, they simply went their separate ways.
4. Atila’s Private Life and Philanthropy
After the separation, Atila chose to stay away from the public eye. He moved back to Belgium, living quietly and dedicating time to charity work. He joined an organization called Helping Hands Belgium, where he helped people in need.
Though quiet, his heartfelt work left a mark. He stayed modest and focused on helping others, even as people remembered him for his past high-profile marriage.
5. Death and Legacy
In October 2021, at 45 years old, Atila Altaunbay passed away unexpectedly. His death was announced by Helping Hands Belgium on Facebook, where he had served as a leader. His funeral was held at the Antwerpen Mehmet Akif Mosque in Belgium, with only family and loved ones attending. The cause of his death was not made public, leaving his passing surrounded by mystery.
6. Legacy and Impact
Atila’s life was full of turns. He started as a bodyguard and had a brief but famous marriage to one of pop culture’s most unique icons, Grace Jones. Despite cultural differences and challenges, he embraced new roles as a performer, protector, and stepfather.
After separating from Grace, he gave up fame and chose to quietly serve his community through philanthropy. His life shows how someone can change paths, from public attention to helping people in need.
Atila Altaunbay is remembered for his unlikely story, how a young bodyguard from Turkey married a legendary star, and later dedicated himself to caring for others. His story remains small but meaningful in the worlds of music, fashion, and kindness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who was Atila Altaunbay?
Atila Altaunbay was a Turkish-born man known as Grace Jones’ ex-husband. He worked as a bodyguard, singer, model, and helped others through charity work. - How did Atila meet Grace Jones?
Atila first met Grace Jones when he was her bodyguard in Belgium in the late 1980s. Their professional bond grew into a romantic one. - When did they get married?
They married in 1996, first in a small ceremony in Rio, then again in Syracuse, New York, to meet legal and religious rules. - Why did they separate?
Their marriage had many challenges, including a big age gap and conflicts. A serious fight, when Atila allegedly threatened Grace with a knife, ended their marriage. - Did they officially divorce?
No. They separated around 2004, but they never finalized a divorce. Grace said she could not find Atila to complete the legal process. - Did Atila and Grace have children together?
No. Grace has a son, Paulo Goude, born from an earlier relationship. Atila was a stepfather figure, but they had no children together. - What did Atila do after the separation?
He moved back to Belgium and lived quietly. He became active in philanthropy and led a charity named Helping Hands Belgium. - When did Atila pass away?
He died in October 2021, at the age of 45. The announcement came from Helping Hands Belgium, the cause of death was not shared. - What was his net worth?
Reports estimate his net worth at around USD 800,000, from his work as a singer, model, and bodyguard. - What is Atila Altaunbay remembered for?
He is remembered for his unique story, from bodyguard to marrying a famous star, and then choosing a life of quiet service through charity. His life shows how someone can change paths and focus on helping others.
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