Who Was Philippe Junot? Philippe Junot was a prominent French venture capitalist and property developer who gained international recognition both for his business ventures and for his high-profile marriage to Princess Caroline of Monaco, the eldest daughter of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace (Grace Kelly).
Beyond his royal connection, Junot lived a cosmopolitan life, with business interests spanning Paris, Spain, and New York City. Known for his charm, confidence, and social presence, he was a familiar figure in elite European and international circles for decades.
Philippe Junot Biography
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Philippe Junot |
| Date of Birth | April 19, 1940 |
| Date He Passed Away | January 8, 2026 |
| Age | 85 years |
| Nationality | French |
| Profession | Venture Capitalist, Property Developer |
| Father | Michel Junot |
| Mother | Lydia Thykjær |
| Former Wife | Princess Caroline of Monaco |
| Second Wife | Nina Wendelboe-Larsen |
| Children | Victoria Junot |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Net Worth | Over $200 million |
Philippe Junot Date of Birth and Age
Philippe Junot was born on April 19, 1940.
He passed away on January 8, 2026, at the age of 85.
Cause of Passing Away
The exact cause of Philippe Junot’s passing away was not publicly disclosed. According to a statement shared by his family, he passed away peacefully in Madrid, Spain, surrounded by loved ones after a long and full life.
Out of respect for privacy, the family chose not to release further medical details.
Early Life and Family Background
Philippe Junot was born into a well-established and influential family in France.
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Father: Michel Junot, a respected French politician who served as Deputy Mayor of Paris and later became President of Maison de l’Europe. Michel Junot was also known for his international work and collaborations, including professional ties during the era of U.S. President John F. Kennedy.
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Mother: Lydia Thykjær, the daughter of a Danish industrialist, bringing Scandinavian heritage into the family line.
The Junot family name is engraved on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, a testament to the family’s historical significance in France.
Brother and Siblings
There is no widely published information confirming details about Philippe Junot’s siblings or brother. Much of his family life outside of his marriages was kept private.
Education and Business Career
Philippe Junot built his career as a venture capitalist and real estate developer, operating across major global cities. He was especially active in:
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Luxury real estate development
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International investment projects
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Cross-border business ventures
His work reflected a strong understanding of global markets and elite networks, helping him amass substantial wealth over the course of his career.
Marriage to Princess Caroline of Monaco
Philippe Junot entered global headlines when he began a relationship with Princess Caroline of Monaco, who was 17 years younger than him.
Despite opposition from her parents—Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace—the couple went on to marry:
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Civil wedding: June 28, 1978
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Religious ceremony: June 29, 1978
The wedding attracted international attention and was attended by major Hollywood figures, including Ava Gardner, Cary Grant, and Frank Sinatra.
The marriage, however, was short-lived. Philippe Junot and Princess Caroline divorced in 1980. Due to Catholic Church requirements, Caroline later waited until 1992 for an official annulment.
Other Marriages and Children
After his divorce from Princess Caroline, Philippe Junot married again.
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Second Wife: Nina Wendelboe-Larsen
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Children: He had a daughter, Victoria Junot, from this marriage.
Victoria later announced her father’s passing away, describing him as a loving father and grandfather. At the time of his passing, Philippe Junot was a grandfather to three children, with another expected.
Religion
Philippe Junot was a Christian, and his faith was reflected in the religious ceremony that followed his civil marriage to Princess Caroline.
Net Worth
At the time of his passing away, Philippe Junot’s estimated net worth was over $200 million. His wealth came primarily from:
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International property development
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Venture capital investments
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Long-term business interests across Europe and the United States
Contacts
For privacy and security reasons, Philippe Junot’s personal contact information was never publicly shared, and no official public contact details exist following his passing away.
Legacy and Public Memory
Philippe Junot is remembered as a man who lived a bold, international, and adventurous life. While his marriage to Monaco royalty placed him in the public spotlight, his lasting legacy lies equally in his business achievements, family heritage, and personal relationships.
His passing away marked the end of a chapter connected to one of Europe’s most closely watched royal stories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How old was Philippe Junot when he passed away?
He was 85 years old.
What was Philippe Junot’s cause of passing away?
The cause was not publicly disclosed. He passed away peacefully in Madrid.
Who was Philippe Junot married to?
He was first married to Princess Caroline of Monaco and later to Nina Wendelboe-Larsen.
Did Philippe Junot have children?
Yes, he had a daughter named Victoria Junot.
What was Philippe Junot’s net worth?
His estimated net worth was over $200 million.
Conclusion
Philippe Junot lived a life shaped by privilege, ambition, and global influence. From his distinguished family background to his high-profile royal marriage and successful business career, he remained a compelling figure for decades. His passing away in 2026 closed a remarkable chapter defined by history, elegance, and international reach, leaving behind a legacy remembered by family, peers, and the public alike
