Hanne Norgaard, also known professionally as Hanne Kim Norgaard, has made a significant impact as a makeup artist, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate.
While many recognize her as the ex-wife of actor Idris Elba, her career accomplishments and advocacy work stand on their own.
Throughout her journey, she has worked on major TV shows, films, and ad campaigns, and founded her own cosmetics line, Kim Elba Cosmetics.
More recently, Norgaard has become an important voice in mental health advocacy by speaking openly about her personal struggles with anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression.
Early Life and Career
Born on April 5, 1977, in the United Kingdom, Hanne Norgaard comes from a diverse background, with British-American and African-Asian roots.
She initially pursued a career in modeling, appearing in commercials and print ads.
However, her passion for makeup led her to London, where she trained as a professional makeup artist.
Her career began to take off when she worked on popular British TV shows such as Absolutely Fabulous and the BBC’s Birds of a Feather.
These experiences helped her build a reputation as a skilled artist, which opened doors to more high-profile projects.
Marriage to Idris Elba
In 1998, Norgaard met Idris Elba at a party in London. The two connected instantly, despite their different backgrounds.
They married in 1999 and later moved to New York City as Elba’s career took off in the U.S.
Their daughter, Isan Elba, was born in 2001, and Norgaard embraced motherhood while continuing her work as a makeup artist.
However, the couple separated in 2003, and both have since remarried.
Despite the divorce, they co-parent Isan, maintaining a positive relationship for their daughter’s well-being.
Success as a Makeup Artist
Norgaard’s career continued to flourish, even after her marriage ended.
She worked with well-known brands and celebrities, including musicians like Angie Stone.
She contributed her talents to various TV shows such as The X Factor, Britain’s Next Top Model, and Cash in the Celebrity Attic.
Over the years, she established herself as a go-to makeup artist for British television networks like BBC, Channel 4, ITV, and Sky.
In 2016, she launched Kim Elba Cosmetics, a line specifically designed for multi-ethnic skin tones.
Her experience working with diverse clients inspired her to create products that catered to the unique needs of women of color.
Personal Struggles and Advocacy
Throughout her life, Hanne Norgaard has faced her share of challenges, particularly around mental health.
She has been open about her battles with chronic anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, discussing how these issues have affected her both personally and professionally.
Her honesty about mental health struggles has made her an important advocate, especially within communities of color, where mental health is often stigmatized.
Her transparency has encouraged others to seek help, and she continues to use her platform to raise awareness about the importance of mental health care.
Norgaard’s story reminds us that success and struggles often coexist, and her willingness to speak out has inspired many to address their own mental health issues.
Family Life
Norgaard remarried in 2009 and lives in London with her husband Gary, their daughter Isan, and their two sons, Kai and Mingus.
Despite keeping a relatively private life, she remains an active presence in both her family and her professional endeavors.
While she does not publicly share financial details, it is estimated that her net worth stands around $900,000.
This wealth comes from her makeup artist career, her cosmetics business, and her early work in modeling.
Legacy and Impact
Hanne Norgaard’s influence in the beauty industry is undeniable. As a makeup artist with over 20 years of experience, she has helped shape modern beauty standards.
Her decision to create Kim Elba Cosmetics addressed an important gap in the market, providing quality products for multi-ethnic skin tones.
This contribution has expanded representation and inclusion in the beauty world.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Norgaard is a role model for women of color.
She has succeeded in industries where minority representation is limited and has done so with grace and perseverance.
Her openness about mental health has also had a profound impact, especially in encouraging people to seek help and address their struggles.
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Conclusion
Hanne Norgaard is a remarkable figure in the beauty industry and beyond.
She has forged a path as an artist, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate, demonstrating that success is about more than professional achievements—it’s about personal growth and resilience.
By sharing her story, Norgaard not only contributes to the conversation around beauty but also around mental health, inspiring others to overcome challenges and find their own strength.
