Philippe Junot was a French venture capitalist and property developer whose life intersected business, high society, and European royalty. Best known to the public as the first husband of Princess Caroline of Monaco, Junot also built a substantial career across Paris, Spain, and New York City. His story is one of ambition, privilege, controversy, and global reach—lived fully and concluded peacefully in early 2026.
This biography presents a clear, natural, and respectful account of Philippe Junot’s life, including his age, family background, marriages, religion, net worth,
Philippe Junot Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Philippe Junot |
| Date of Birth | 19 April 1940 |
| Place of Birth | France |
| Date He Passed Away | 8 January 2026 |
| Age at Passing | 85 years |
| Nationality | French |
| Occupation | Venture capitalist, property developer |
| Known For | First husband of Princess Caroline of Monaco |
| Religion | Christian |
| Net Worth | Estimated over $200 million |
Who Was Philippe Junot?
Philippe Junot was a French businessman with interests spanning real estate development and venture capital. While his professional life was substantial, public attention often centered on his marriage to Princess Caroline of Monaco, a union that placed him squarely in the global spotlight during the late 1970s.
Despite the scrutiny, Junot maintained an international lifestyle and continued building business interests across major world cities.
Early Life and Background
Philippe Junot was born on April 19, 1940, into a well-connected and influential family. His upbringing exposed him early to politics, culture, and international affairs—an environment that shaped his confidence and cosmopolitan outlook.
The Junot family name carries historical significance in France and is even inscribed on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, reflecting a long-standing legacy.
Age
Philippe Junot was 85 years old when he passed away on January 8, 2026.
Family and Parents
Father: Michel Junot
Philippe Junot’s father, Michel Junot, was a respected French politician who served as Deputy Mayor of Paris and later as President of Maison de l’Europe. He was involved in international diplomacy and, at one point, worked alongside U.S. President John F. Kennedy.
Mother: Lydia Thykjær
His mother, Lydia Thykjær, came from Danish industrial roots. She was the daughter of a prominent Danish industrialist, adding another layer of European influence to Junot’s heritage.
Brother and Siblings
Details about Philippe Junot’s siblings or brother were kept largely private and were not widely disclosed in public records. He appeared to maintain a clear separation between family privacy and public life.
Education and Career Path
While specific academic details are not widely documented, Philippe Junot moved comfortably in elite circles from an early age. He later established himself as a venture capitalist and property developer, with business interests in:
-
Paris
-
Spain
-
New York City
His career reflected a mix of financial insight, risk-taking, and international mobility.
Marriage to Princess Caroline of Monaco
Philippe Junot began a relationship with Princess Caroline of Monaco when she was 20 years old. At the time, Junot was 36, and his reputation as a charismatic social figure made the romance controversial.
Royal Opposition
Princess Caroline’s parents, Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace (Grace Kelly), strongly opposed the relationship. In attempts to slow the romance, Caroline was sent on cultural trips, including to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands.
Wedding and Divorce
Despite objections, the couple married in a civil ceremony on June 28, 1978, followed by a religious ceremony the next day. The wedding attracted major Hollywood stars, reflecting Princess Grace’s legacy.
The marriage lasted two years, ending in divorce in 1980. A formal Catholic annulment was granted years later.
Later Marriage and Children
After his divorce from Princess Caroline, Philippe Junot married Nina Wendelboe-Larsen. Together, they had a daughter named Victoria Junot.
Victoria later shared a heartfelt message announcing her father’s passing away, describing him as a loving father and grandfather with a rich, adventurous life.
Religion
Philippe Junot practiced Christianity. His marriage ceremonies and later annulment proceedings followed Christian—specifically Catholic—traditions common within European aristocratic circles.
Cause of Passing Away
The exact cause of Philippe Junot’s passing away was not publicly disclosed.
What is known is that he passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, in Madrid, surrounded by family, after what his daughter described as a long, adventurous, and fulfilling life.
Net Worth
At the time of his passing, Philippe Junot’s net worth was estimated at over $200 million.
His wealth was accumulated through:
-
Real estate development
-
Venture capital investments
-
International business ventures
He lived a lifestyle consistent with global high society rather than public extravagance.
Contacts and Public Presence
Philippe Junot did not maintain public contact details. Following his passing away, communications were shared only through family statements and official announcements.
Public Image and Legacy
Philippe Junot remains remembered for:
-
His role in Monaco’s royal history
-
His international business career
-
His association with European and global elites
Though his marriage to Princess Caroline was brief, it remains a defining chapter in both their lives and in Monaco’s modern history.
Conclusion
The life of Philippe Junot reflects a man shaped by heritage, ambition, and global experience. From Parisian roots to royal marriage and international business success, he lived fully and unapologetically.
As his daughter expressed so movingly, his chapter may have closed, but the stories, memories, and influence he left behind continue—quietly, gracefully, and with dignity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How old was Philippe Junot when he passed away?
He was 85 years old.
2. What was Philippe Junot’s cause of passing away?
The cause was not publicly disclosed.
3. Who was Philippe Junot married to?
He was first married to Princess Caroline of Monaco and later to Nina Wendelboe-Larsen.
4. Who were Philippe Junot’s parents?
His parents were Michel Junot and Lydia Thykjær.
5. What was Philippe Junot’s net worth?
His estimated net worth was over $200 million.
Leave a Reply