Natalie Wihongi might not be a familiar name to those outside the film and makeup industry, but her remarkable work has earned her respect in Hollywood. Born on March 8, 1972, in Auckland, New Zealand, Wihongi transformed her passion for makeup into a successful career, leaving a lasting mark on the cinematic world.
Early Life and Education
Natalie Wihongi grew up in Auckland, where she was encouraged by her family—her father, a businessman, and her mother, a housewife—to pursue her artistic talents. She attended Epsom Girls Grammar School, a prestigious institution that nurtured her creative abilities. After finishing secondary school, Wihongi pursued her love for the arts at a private university in Auckland, focusing on creative fields. Her desire for broader horizons led her to Los Angeles, California, where she aimed to make a name for herself in Hollywood.
Career Highlights
Once in Los Angeles, Natalie enrolled in a makeup artistry course, which sparked her passion for the craft. Her career took off when she landed her first major role as a makeup artist on the set of The Privateers in 2000. It was on this project that she met Karl Urban, who would later become her husband. This marked a turning point in her career, opening doors to many more opportunities.
Natalie’s work continued to thrive in the industry, with notable contributions including her role as a makeup artist on Rain (2001). Her dedication and skill established her as a trusted name in Hollywood, known for creating transformative looks that helped bring characters to life.
Personal Life, Marriage, and Children
Natalie’s personal life mirrored the ups and downs of her career. Her relationship with Karl Urban blossomed during the filming of The Privateers. The couple married and had two children, Hunter and Indiana Urban, with Indiana’s name being a tribute to Karl’s admiration for the Indiana Jones films. Their family life split its time between New Zealand and Hollywood, balancing their professional commitments with their home life.
However, in 2014, the couple announced their separation after ten years of marriage. Despite this, they remained dedicated to co-parenting their children and creating a positive environment for them. The reason for their split remained private, with rumors speculating that Karl’s relationship with Riddick co-star Katee Sackhoff may have played a role, though the details were never fully disclosed.
Who Is Karl Urban?
Karl Urban, born on June 7, 1972, in Wellington, New Zealand, is a talented actor known for his roles in The Lord of the Rings trilogy as Éomer, Star Trek as Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy, and Dredd as the title character. Urban has also excelled in television, particularly in the popular series The Boys, where he plays Billy Butcher. His diverse career has made him a globally recognized figure in both film and TV.
Natalie Wihongi’s Divorce from Karl Urban
The divorce between Natalie and Karl, announced in 2014, followed a decade of marriage. They met on the set of The Privateers, and their connection grew both personally and professionally. While the reasons for their separation remain private, it is clear that they remain committed to maintaining a stable family environment for their children. Speculation about Karl’s relationship with Katee Sackhoff followed the breakup, but as with many personal matters, only those directly involved know the truth behind the split.
Natalie Wihongi’s Influence on the Makeup Industry
As a makeup artist, Natalie Wihongi has had a significant impact on the film industry. Her ability to create character-defining looks has made her an invaluable asset on set. Beyond aesthetics, her work plays a key role in storytelling, allowing actors to fully embody their roles. Aspiring makeup artists and industry professionals look up to her, with many discussing her techniques in workshops and forums.
Public and Media Perception
Natalie Wihongi is widely regarded as a professional and down-to-earth figure in Hollywood. Interviews and articles often highlight her dedication to her craft and her humility. Despite the challenges that come with working in such a high-pressure industry, Natalie has maintained a positive public image and continues to be respected for her contributions to the art of makeup.
Current Projects and Future Plans
Natalie Wihongi remains active in the film industry, working on various projects that continue to challenge and inspire her. She has several upcoming projects that promise to showcase her evolving skills. As one of Hollywood’s top makeup artists, her future in the industry looks bright as she continues to push the boundaries of her craft.
Net Worth and Achievements
Natalie Wihongi’s successful career has contributed to an estimated net worth of $1 million. This wealth reflects her talent, hard work, and reputation in the industry, where the visual impact of makeup is essential to film productions’ success.
Conclusion
Natalie Wihongi’s journey from Auckland to Hollywood is a testament to her passion, resilience, and artistic skill. She has played an integral role in shaping the visual identity of numerous films, helping to bring characters to life in unforgettable ways. As a talented makeup artist, she continues to inspire others in her field, ensuring her legacy in the makeup industry endures for years to come.
FAQs:
1. Who is Natalie Wihongi?
Natalie Wihongi is a renowned makeup artist from New Zealand, known for her contributions to Hollywood films. She also gained public attention through her marriage to actor Karl Urban. Her work as a makeup artist has significantly influenced the visual storytelling in the movies she has worked on.
2. What are some notable projects that Natalie Wihongi has worked on?
Natalie Wihongi’s career includes significant contributions to films like The Privateers (where she met Karl Urban) and Rain (2001), where she showcased her exceptional makeup artistry. These projects helped establish her reputation in Hollywood.
3. Is Natalie Wihongi married?
Natalie Wihongi was married to actor Karl Urban. They met during the filming of The Privateers and were married for ten years before announcing their separation in 2014. They have two sons, Hunter and Indiana.
4. How did Natalie Wihongi start her career in makeup artistry?
After completing a short makeup artistry course in Los Angeles, Natalie began her career in Hollywood. Her passion for the craft and opportunities in the entertainment industry helped her establish herself as a respected makeup artist.
5. What is Natalie Wihongi’s net worth?
Natalie Wihongi’s net worth is estimated at $1 million. This reflects her successful career in the film industry, where she worked on many high-profile projects and became known for her expertise in makeup artistry.