Claire Payne
Natalie Wihongi is a name known by many due to her high-profile marriage to actor Karl Urban. However, beyond her relationship with the Hollywood star, she is a talented makeup artist with a significant career in the film and television industry. Born in New Zealand, Natalie’s journey from a small town to the bustling film sets of Hollywood is one filled with determination, passion, and creative mastery. This article will dive into her early life, career, marriage to Karl Urban, and the legacy she’s building in the world of makeup artistry.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Natalie Wihongi |
| Famous As | Karl Urban’s Ex-Wife |
| Date of Birth | March 8, 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’’ (160 cm) |
| Weight | 60 kg |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Relationship Status | Divorced |
| Net Worth | $1 million |
Early Life and Education
Natalie Wihongi was born on March 8, 1972, in Auckland, New Zealand. Growing up in a supportive and creative family, she was encouraged to pursue her interests. Her father worked as a businessman, while her mother took care of the household. The nurturing environment she was raised in laid the foundation for her artistic inclinations.
Natalie attended Epsom Girls Grammar School, a school known for fostering creativity among its students. It was during these formative years that Natalie developed an interest in the arts. She later pursued higher education at a prestigious university in Auckland, where she studied makeup artistry. This move would ultimately set the stage for her future in Hollywood.
Career Beginnings
Natalie’s path to becoming a makeup artist began shortly after her time at university. She undertook a short makeup course that ignited a passion for the craft, turning a simple interest into a lifelong career. With a solid foundation in the beauty industry, she decided to make the bold move to Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world.
The move to LA marked the beginning of her professional journey. Hollywood’s competitive nature demanded the best, and Natalie soon found herself working on various film and television projects. Her skill in creating makeup looks that ranged from subtle beauty to fantastical transformations quickly garnered attention in the industry.
Breakthrough and Career Milestones
Natalie’s big break came in 2000 when she worked as a makeup artist on the film The Privateers. It was here that she not only showcased her talent but also met Karl Urban, the actor who would become her husband. This marked a pivotal moment in both her professional and personal life.
Her work on The Privateers and subsequent projects like Rain (2001) helped establish her as a respected figure in Hollywood’s makeup industry. Over the years, Natalie’s portfolio expanded to include many high-profile projects, where her makeup artistry played a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of various characters. Whether it was a natural look for a period drama or a more elaborate style for a fantasy epic, Natalie’s ability to transform actors into their roles helped enhance the storytelling process.
Meeting and Marriage with Karl Urban
Natalie’s personal life gained attention when she met Karl Urban on the set of The Privateers. At the time, Natalie was working as the makeup artist, and Karl was the lead actor. Their professional relationship quickly blossomed into a romantic one, and the couple became inseparable. Their shared passion for the creative arts and family life led them to marry in September 2004.
The marriage was a celebration of their bond, not just professionally but also personally. The couple had two children together: Hunter Urban, born in 2000, and Indiana Urban, born in 2005. The name “Indiana” was inspired by Karl Urban’s admiration for the famous Indiana Jones character, symbolizing the couple’s deep connection to cinema and creativity.
Children
Natalie and Karl Urban’s two sons, Hunter and Indiana, played an important role in their family life. Hunter, born before their marriage, arrived in 2000, while Indiana, named after the iconic film character, followed in 2005. Despite their parents’ eventual separation, both boys were raised in a creative, loving environment, with their parents continuing to support them as co-parents.
Divorce and Post-Divorce Life
In June 2014, after nearly a decade of marriage, Natalie and Karl Urban announced their separation. Unlike many celebrity divorces, their split was handled with discretion, and they worked together to ensure that their two sons remained their primary focus.
Though the reasons behind their divorce remain private, both Natalie and Karl have maintained a respectful relationship and continue to co-parent their children. Both have moved forward with their careers while ensuring their children’s well-being remained at the forefront of their decisions.
Challenges and Overcoming Adversity
Natalie’s career in Hollywood has not been without challenges. Like many professionals in the competitive world of film, she faced the pressure of tight deadlines and the demands of creating intricate looks that align with directors’ visions. At times, the balance between personal and professional life proved difficult, especially when managing the logistics of working on set while raising a family.
However, Natalie’s resilience and unwavering dedication to her craft helped her overcome these obstacles. Her reputation for being dependable and highly skilled only grew as she gained experience in the industry. Today, she remains a respected figure in makeup artistry, admired for her ability to blend creativity with technical expertise.
Impact and Legacy
Natalie Wihongi’s impact on the film industry, particularly in makeup artistry, is undeniable. She has worked on numerous high-profile projects, helping to bring characters to life and enhance the storytelling through her artistry. While much of the work done by makeup artists may go unnoticed by the audience, it is through these skilled hands that much of the magic in film happens.
Her ability to transform faces and create iconic looks has inspired aspiring makeup artists and set a high standard for those working in the field. She is a role model for anyone looking to pursue a career in makeup, demonstrating that hard work, passion, and creativity can lead to success in a competitive industry.
Current Projects and Future Aspirations
Natalie is still an active participant in the film and television industry, continuing to work on various projects. Her future looks promising, with numerous exciting opportunities on the horizon. As an industry veteran, she continues to push boundaries and redefine beauty standards through her makeup artistry.
Though she maintains a relatively low profile in comparison to other celebrities, Natalie’s work continues to be an integral part of many creative projects. Her unwavering commitment to the craft ensures that she will remain a prominent figure in the entertainment world for years to come.
Net Worth
As a successful makeup artist, Natalie Wihongi has built a career that has brought her considerable financial success. Her estimated net worth is around $1 million. This wealth comes from her extensive work on high-profile films and TV shows, where her expertise has played a vital role in creating the desired aesthetic for numerous characters.
Conclusion
Natalie Wihongi’s journey from New Zealand to Hollywood is a testament to her passion for the arts and her dedication to her craft. While her marriage to Karl Urban may have made her a household name, it is her work behind the scenes that truly sets her apart. As she continues to make her mark on the film industry, Natalie remains a respected figure and an inspiration to many aspiring makeup artists.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Natalie Wihongi best known for?
Natalie Wihongi is best known for her career as a makeup artist in the film industry. She is also recognized for being the ex-wife of actor Karl Urban.
2. How did Natalie Wihongi start her career in makeup artistry?
After completing a short course in makeup, Natalie moved to Los Angeles, where she began her career as a makeup artist, working on various film and television sets.
3. Has Natalie Wihongi won any awards for her makeup work?
While there is no public record of specific awards, Natalie Wihongi is highly respected in the industry for her contributions to film and television makeup.
4. What are some of Natalie Wihongi’s most notable projects?
Some of her notable works include The Privateers and Rain, where her makeup artistry played a significant role in the films’ success.
5. How did Natalie Wihongi meet Karl Urban?
Natalie and Karl met on the set of The Privateers, where she worked as a makeup artist, and their professional relationship soon turned romantic.
6. What can you tell us about Natalie Wihongi’s family?
Natalie has two sons with Karl Urban, Hunter and Indiana, and despite their divorce, they continue to co-parent successfully.
7. Is Natalie Wihongi still working as a makeup artist?
Yes, Natalie Wihongi is still actively working as a makeup artist. She continues to take on various projects in the film and television industry, contributing her expertise to enhance the visual storytelling in multiple productions.
8. What is Natalie Wihongi’s net worth?
Natalie Wihongi’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million, accumulated through her successful career as a makeup artist and her contributions to numerous high-profile film and television projects.
9. What are some challenges Natalie Wihongi faced in her career?
Like many professionals in the competitive film industry, Natalie faced challenges such as tight schedules, high expectations, and the pressure of balancing a successful career with personal responsibilities. Despite these challenges, she remained dedicated to her craft and was able to build a solid reputation as a talented and reliable makeup artist.
10. How has Natalie Wihongi’s career impacted the makeup industry?
Natalie has made a lasting impact on the makeup industry by setting high standards for creativity, attention to detail, and professionalism. Her work has inspired countless aspiring makeup artists, and her contributions have enhanced the quality and visual appeal of many films, helping characters come to life in new and exciting ways.
Stay connected for the latest news and updates on, Blog Tap