Meet Grace’s Ex-Husband: Get to Know Atila Altaunbay

Atila Altaunbay, though not widely known, gained public attention through his marriage to the iconic Jamaican-American singer, model, and actress, Grace Jones. Their relationship, spanning from 1996 to 2004, was marked by its unconventional nature and the significant age difference between the two.

Early Life and Background

Born in 1976 in Turkey, Atila Altaunbay was raised in a Muslim family. He spent his early childhood in Turkey before relocating to Belgium, where he pursued his education.

In Belgium, Atila worked various jobs, including as a pizza delivery driver. He also explored interests in the arts, attempting modeling, singing, and performing at events such as weddings.

Career as a Bodyguard

Atila’s career as a bodyguard began in Belgium, where he provided protection to various individuals, including celebrities.

His role as a bodyguard not only showcased his physical prowess but also his dedication to ensuring the safety and privacy of his clients. It was during this time that he met Grace Jones, marking the beginning of a significant chapter in his life.

Meeting Grace Jones

Atila met Grace Jones in the late 1980s when he worked as her bodyguard at a club in Belgium. Their professional relationship gradually evolved into a romantic one.

Despite their efforts to keep their relationship private, the significant age difference Atila was 21, and Grace was 48 at the time of their marriage, and their unconventional pairing attracted media attention.

Marriage to Grace Jones

On February 24, 1996, Atila and Grace Jones were married in a private ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Their marriage faced challenges, including public scrutiny and personal differences. Grace later disclosed that Atila’s territorial and negative behavior led to their separation in 2004.

Life After Separation

Following their separation, Atila chose to live a private life, distancing himself from the public eye. 

He returned to Belgium and engaged in philanthropic efforts, focusing on helping underprivileged communities. Atila served as the president of Helping Hands Belgium, an organization dedicated to charitable causes.

Death and Legacy

Atila Altaunbay passed away in mid-October 2021 at the age of 45. His funeral was held at the Antwerpen Mehmet Akif Mosque in Belgium and was attended by close family and friends.

Despite his relatively low public profile, Atila’s life, particularly his marriage to Grace Jones, continues to intrigue many.

FAQs

1. Who is Atila Altaunbay?

Atila Altaunbay was a Turkish-born individual known for his roles as a bodyguard, model, singer, and philanthropist. He gained public attention through his marriage to Jamaican-American singer and actress Grace Jones.

2. How did Atila Altaunbay meet Grace Jones?

Atila met Grace Jones in the late 1980s when he worked as her bodyguard at a club in Belgium. Their professional relationship evolved into a romantic one, leading to their marriage in 1996. ​

3. What was the age difference between Atila Altaunbay and Grace Jones?

There was a 27-year age gap between Atila and Grace. Grace was born in 1948, while Atila was born in 1976.

4. Did Atila Altaunbay and Grace Jones have children together?

No, Atila and Grace did not have children together. Grace has a son, Paulo Goude, from a previous relationship with French graphic designer Jean-Paul Goude.

5. Why did Atila Altaunbay and Grace Jones divorce?

Their marriage faced challenges due to cultural differences, personal conflicts, and public scrutiny. Grace later mentioned that Atila’s territorial and negative behavior contributed to their separation in 2004. ​

6. What did Atila Altaunbay do after his separation from Grace Jones?

After their separation, Atila led a private life in Belgium, engaging in philanthropic activities. He served as the president of Helping Hands Belgium, focusing on supporting underprivileged communities. ​

7. When did Atila Altaunbay pass away?

Atila Altaunbay passed away in mid-October 2021 at the age of 45. His funeral was held at the Antwerpen Mehmet Akif Mosque in Belgium. ​

8. What was Atila Altaunbay’s net worth?

At the time of his passing, Atila’s net worth was estimated to be around $800,000, accumulated through his careers in modeling, singing, and bodyguarding.

9. Was Atila Altaunbay involved in any public controversies?

Yes, during his marriage to Grace Jones, there were reports of conflicts, including an incident where Atila allegedly threatened Grace with a knife, which contributed to their separation.

10. Did Atila Altaunbay maintain a public profile after his marriage to Grace Jones?

No, after separating from Grace Jones, Atila chose to live a private life, avoiding media attention and public engagements.

11. Where did Atila Altaunbay spend his later years?

Atila spent his later years in Antwerp, Belgium, where he focused on philanthropic efforts and lived away from the public eye. ​

12. What legacy did Atila Altaunbay leave behind?

Atila is remembered for his philanthropic work, particularly his contributions to Helping Hands Belgium, and for his marriage to Grace Jones, which brought him temporary public attention.