French businessman Philippe Junot, whose whirlwind 1978 marriage to Princess Caroline of Monaco made global headlines, has died at 85.
> At a Glance
> – Philippe Junot, first husband of Princess Caroline, died Jan. 8 in Madrid at 85
> – Their 1978 wedding drew Hollywood royalty like Ava Gardner and Frank Sinatra
> – The couple divorced in 1980, with the Catholic Church granting an annulment in 1992
> – Why it matters: The union-and its controversial end-shaped Monaco’s modern royal narrative
The 36-year-old playboy’s romance with 20-year-old Caroline sparked palace opposition. Prince Rainier and Princess Grace sent their daughter to Ecuador and the Galápagos to cool the relationship, but the couple wed on June 28, 1978.
A Wedding the World Watched
Monaco’s cathedral ceremony the next day became a celebrity magnet. Guests included Cary Grant alongside Gardner and Sinatra, turning the principality into a paparazzi playground.
- Civil ceremony: June 28, 1978
- Religious ceremony: June 29, 1978
- Divorce finalized: 1980
- Church annulment: 1992
Junot’s daughter Victoria announced his death on Instagram, writing he “departed peacefully surrounded by family” and praising his “long, beautiful adventurous life.”
Life After the Palace
Following the split, Caroline married Stefano Casiraghi in 1983 and had three children before his 1990 death. She later wed Prince Ernst August of Hanover in 1999, with whom she shares Princess Alexandra.
Junot married Nina Wendelboe-Larsen in 1987. They had three children-Victoria, Isabelle, and Alexis-before separating in 1997. He later fathered Chloé with Swedish model Helén Wendel in 2005.
Key Takeaways
- Junot’s death closes a chapter on Monaco’s most scrutinized royal romance
- The 17-year age gap and his playboy reputation fueled global tabloid frenzy
- Caroline’s annulment paved the way for her second husband’s death to be recognized by the Church
The businessman’s passing marks the end of a story that once threatened Monaco’s fairy-tale image and forever changed its princess.
