Atila Altaunbay is primarily known for his marriage to the iconic artist Grace Jones, a union that sparked public and media interest.
This article aims to explore the lesser-known aspects of his life, shedding light on his professional journey, his passions, and how these experiences have shaped his path.
Join us on a journey through Atila Altaunbay’s life, beyond the spotlight of his famous ex-wife.
◍ Who is Atila Altaunbay?
Born in 1976 in Turkey, Atila Altaunbay grew up in a Turkish Muslim family and spent much of his youth in Belgium.
Based on his year of birth, Altaunbay would be approximately 48 years old today.
Although there are not many details about his early years, it appears that his childhood and adolescence were mainly in Europe, which likely provided him with a unique blend of cultural experiences.
Before his relationship with Grace Jones, Altaunbay worked in various jobs, even working as a pizza delivery driver in Belgium.
However, his imposing physical presence eventually led him to a career as a bodyguard, a role that would eventually connect him with his future wife and the world of entertainment.
In addition to this work, he demonstrated skills in other areas. It is known that he has a remarkable voice, which allowed him to sing at weddings and other events.
His interest in the arts also extended to modeling and acting, although specific details about his involvement in these areas are scarce.
◍ What happened between Atila Altaunbay and Grace Jones?
The relationship between Atila Altaunbay and Grace Jones was one of the most striking and talked-about in the entertainment world due to the significant age and cultural differences.
It all began in Belgium, where Altaunbay, then a young bodyguard, caught the attention of the multi-talented artist, and they started dating.
The age difference between them was considerable, with Atila being 27 years younger than Grace. However, despite this difference, Jones proposed to him, and they got married in 1996 in a private ceremony in Rio de Janeiro.
This union also faced significant cultural challenges, as Atila, of Turkish Muslim origin, had to deal with resistance from his family due to his decision to marry outside traditional expectations.
As the youngest son in the family, his culture dictated that he couldn’t marry until his older brothers did. By marrying Jones, he defied these norms and, as a result, lost contact with his family.
Throughout their marriage, the couple tried to keep their relationship private, but their status as public figures made this a challenge.
They also did not have children together, and while it is speculated that this may have been a personal choice, the reasons behind this decision are not clear.
Over time, the relationship began to experience tensions, often motivated by episodes of territorial behavior from Altaunbay.
The turning point came in 2004 when, during an argument, he threatened Jones with a knife. This violent incident marked the end of their marriage.
Despite the separation, they never officially divorced because Grace Jones couldn’t locate Atila Altaunbay to complete the legal process.
◍ What is Atila Altaunbay up to now?
Atila Altaunbay’s current whereabouts remain a mystery. It is speculated that he may have returned to his roots in Turkey, but details are elusive.
Some reports also suggest that he passed away in 2021 at the age of 45, although this has not been verified.
Unlike his ex-wife, who continued with her public career, the former bodyguard has not participated in public events or had an active presence on social media or other forms of media.
It’s worth noting that Altaunbay and Jones never officially divorced because, as stated by Jones in her biography, she couldn’t locate him to finalize the legal process.
This situation left his marital status in a legal and emotional gray area that the artist has managed to overcome with the support of her family.
◍ Atila Altaunbay’s Net Worth
Estimates of Atila Altaunbay’s net worth vary, but some sources suggest it could be around $800,000.
This calculation is based on his career as a bodyguard and other potential income he may have earned over the years, including his work in modeling and music.
It’s important to emphasize that these calculations are speculative and are not supported by concrete financial information.
Atila’s post-divorce life has been so private that any claims about his current financial situation can only be a guess.
◍ Who is the Father of Grace Jones’ Child?
The father of Grace Jones’ child is Jean-Paul Goude, a renowned French graphic designer, illustrator, photographer, and music video director.
Goude and Jones had a romantic relationship in the 1980s, during which their son, Paulo Goude, was born in 1979.
Jean-Paul Goude is an influential figure in the world of art and fashion, known for his creative work and collaborations with various celebrities, including Grace Jones, for whom he created some of the most iconic and creative imagery.
The relationship between Goude and Jones was not only romantic but also professional, collaborating on several projects that defined Jones’ aesthetic and visual style during her peak.
Paulo Goude, the son of Grace Jones and Jean-Paul Goude, has followed in his parents’ creative footsteps, becoming involved in music and art.
The collaboration between Grace Jones and Jean-Paul Goude remains one of the most memorable and visually stimulating partnerships in the entertainment world, blending fashion, music, and art in a unique and innovative way.
◍ What Became of Grace Jones’ Life?
Grace Jones, after her relationship with Atila Altaunbay, has continued to be a prominent and iconic figure in popular culture.
Her musical career continued to flourish, marked by her unique style and ability to blend genres such as reggae, funk, new wave, and pop.
With hits like “Pull Up to the Bumper” and “Slave to the Rhythm,” Jones solidified her status as an influential and avant-garde artist.
In the realm of cinema, she left her mark with memorable performances in films like “Conan the Destroyer” and “A View to a Kill,” showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her work in film was recognized with nominations for prestigious awards, such as the Saturn Awards.
Beyond her music and film career, Grace Jones has been an inspirational figure in the worlds of art and fashion, influencing cross-dressing movements and serving as a muse for renowned contemporary artists.
Her cultural impact has been so significant that she was awarded the Q Idol Award in 2008, and in 2016, Billboard recognized her as one of the most successful dance artists in history.
Furthermore, in 2018, Grace Jones received a significant honor when she was awarded the Order of Jamaica, in recognition of her exceptional contribution to culture and the arts.
Her legacy as an icon in music, film, and fashion endures, serving as a constant source of inspiration for new generations.
Grace Jones should have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame many years ago. She set the standard for artists to follow. She is the wild child of rock and roll.