Hanne Norgaard, widely recognized as the first wife of Idris Elba, is far more than a celebrity ex. A professional makeup artist, cosmetic brand founder, motivational speaker, and mental health advocate, she has spent over three decades quietly influencing both the beauty industry and communities in need. Her identity as a Blasian woman of African-American and South Korean heritage, her success in entrepreneurship, and her outspoken stance on wellness have all contributed to a story worth telling.
Who Is Hanne Norgaard?
Beyond the fame that came with marrying Idris Elba, Hanne Norgaard is a seasoned professional with a track record in global beauty campaigns, wellness coaching, and women’s empowerment. Her business ventures, including Make Up Your Mind Inc. and Kim Elba Cosmetics, have served clients ranging from A-list celebrities to everyday women seeking self-confidence.
Her work today blends beauty with purpose. Whether she’s applying makeup or speaking at a conference, Hanne’s message is consistent: Beauty begins inside.
She lives by her principles, balancing career, faith, family, and advocacy with humility and strength.
Hanne Norgaard Ethnicity – A Multicultural Identity
Hanne Norgaard is of mixed African-American and South Korean descent, proudly identifying as Blasian. Her unique cultural heritage gave her a global perspective from a young age. Raised in both the United States and the UK, she learned to navigate diverse environments, which later shaped her inclusive vision of beauty. As a makeup artist, she’s been particularly skilled at working with different skin tones and facial structures, celebrating individuality in all forms.
This multicultural awareness became a cornerstone of her brand. It not only set her apart professionally but made her a relatable figure to women across ethnic backgrounds. Her career has helped elevate conversations around representation in beauty, well before it became a mainstream demand.
Hanne Norgaard Age and Early Life
Born on April 5, 1977, Hanne Norgaard is 48 years old as of 2025. She was raised in Atlanta, Georgia, but spent much of her early adult life in London, where she honed her makeup skills and developed her creative foundation. Her journey into beauty wasn’t accidental—it was a passion that began early. By the time she reached her early twenties, she was already working behind the scenes in major productions.
Her training at the International Makeup Artist Academy in London in the early 1990s gave her the tools she needed to work across industries—from fashion to film to editorial. She graduated with certifications in special effects, prosthetics, and editorial makeup, setting her apart as a versatile and high-demand artist.
Idris Elba and Hanne Nørgaard – A Brief Marriage with Lasting Respect
Hanne met Idris Elba in London during the 1990s when he was still establishing himself as an actor. The two married in 1999, and in 2002, they welcomed their daughter, Isan Elba. Unfortunately, their marriage ended in 2003, but they remained committed to co-parenting and maintained a respectful post-divorce relationship.
Despite being linked to one of the world’s most recognizable actors, Hanne avoided the Hollywood limelight. She didn’t chase fame, nor did she seek media attention after the divorce. Instead, she focused on personal growth and raising Isan in a loving, grounded environment.
First Wife Hanne Norgaard – Defined by Her Own Legacy
Although many associate Hanne primarily with being Idris Elba’s first wife, her journey reveals a powerful narrative of resilience, independence, and identity. She deliberately stepped back from celebrity culture, choosing instead to build something meaningful on her own terms.
Hanne’s evolution from a celebrity spouse to a faith-driven entrepreneur and mental health advocate shows how women can reclaim their stories. Today, she is respected not for who she married but for how she uplifted herself—and others—after the spotlight faded.
A Career Rooted in Beauty and Empowerment
Hollywood Clients and High Fashion Campaigns
Hanne’s client list includes global powerhouses:
-
BBC
-
Columbia TriStar
-
MTV
-
Ralph Lauren
-
Calvin Klein
She has worked with major talents like:
-
Robin Williams
-
Geena Davis
-
Hugh Laurie
-
Seal
These experiences gave her valuable insight into performance beauty and editorial styling. She became known for her professionalism, creativity, and unique eye for detail, especially when working with melanin-rich complexions.
Founding Kim Elba Cosmetics
In an industry still dominated by Eurocentric standards, Hanne founded Kim Elba Cosmetics, a brand offering:
-
Cruelty-free formulas
-
Paraben-free ingredients
-
A wide range of shades for diverse skin tones
Her goal? To provide ethical and inclusive beauty options for women of all backgrounds.
The brand’s tagline—“Enhance what’s already beautiful”—captures Hanne’s philosophy of internal and external harmony.
“Make Up Your Mind” – A Beauty Service for Real Women
Her service brand, Make Up Your Mind, focuses on:
-
One-on-one consultations
-
Bridal styling
-
Image transformation workshops
-
Beauty education for beginners
This direct-to-client approach allowed her to uplift not just celebrities but everyday women, many of whom credit her with helping rebuild their confidence.
Faith, Remarriage, and Healing
In 2013, Hanne married Pastor Andrew L. Friar II, a community leader in Atlanta, Georgia. Together, they serve in their church, Heart Strong Faith Ministries, and run outreach programs centered on women’s healing and empowerment.
Hanne’s Role in Ministry
She organizes and leads:
-
Spiritual healing retreats
-
Faith-based beauty seminars
-
Mentorship circles for women overcoming trauma
-
Workshops on forgiveness, self-worth, and spiritual alignment
Blending beauty with belief, she encourages women to see themselves through God’s eyes—not societal pressures.
Mental Health Advocacy – Breaking the Silence
Hanne Norgaard has publicly shared her experiences with:
-
Chronic anxiety
-
Bipolar disorder
-
Depression
Her bravery in addressing mental illness has made her an important voice in destigmatizing mental health issues, particularly in Black and Asian-American communities where such topics are often ignored or misunderstood.
Her Daughter’s Influence
Hanne’s daughter, Isan Elba, inspired by her mother’s transparency, became a mental health advocate in her own right. As a former Golden Globe Ambassador, Isan used her platform to promote mental wellness for youth, often referencing her mother’s strength and support.
Personal Style and Public Perception
Despite her professional background in fashion and makeup, Hanne lives a modest, faith-filled life. She avoids overexposure, preferring intimate events, ministry, and family gatherings over Hollywood galas.
Her personal style reflects her philosophy:
-
Clean beauty
-
Elegant simplicity
-
Bold lip colors
-
Modest and feminine fashion
She frequently shares beauty tips centered on inner peace, hydration, and self-acceptance.
Hanne Norgaard Net Worth and Professional Success
Hanne Norgaard’s net worth is estimated between $700,000 and $1 million. While this number is modest compared to Hollywood figures, it reflects:
-
Multiple income streams
-
Business ownership
-
Speaking fees
-
Private consultations
-
Brand partnerships
She continues to grow her legacy through faith-led entrepreneurship, balancing business with ministry and mentorship.
Where Is Hanne Norgaard Now?
Today, Hanne lives a peaceful, purpose-driven life in Atlanta, Georgia, where she balances multiple roles:
-
Wife to Pastor Friar
-
Mother to Isan Elba
-
Founder of a clean beauty brand
-
Ministry leader and mentor
Though she maintains a low public profile, she remains highly respected among those who know her story.
Her memoir is in progress and promises to explore her multicultural identity, healing journey, spiritual path, and lessons from fame and beyond.
Also Read:Bridget Thornborrow: A Look into Her Career, Achievements, and Personal Life
What is Hanne Norgaard’s ethnicity?
Hanne is Blasian, with African-American and South Korean heritage.
Was she Idris Elba’s first wife?
Yes, Hanne was Idris Elba’s first wife, married from 1999 to 2003.
Is she still involved in the beauty industry?
Absolutely. She runs Kim Elba Cosmetics and continues beauty coaching through Make Up Your Mind.
Where does she live now?
Hanne currently lives in Georgia, USA, with her husband and continues her work in both business and ministry.
Conclusion
Hanne Norgaard’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, transformation, and purpose. Though often introduced as Idris Elba’s first wife, her true legacy is defined by her work as a beauty entrepreneur, faith leader, and mental health advocate. With a multicultural identity and a career spanning over 30 years, she has built a life centered on inner strength, spiritual healing, and inclusive empowerment.
From launching Kim Elba Cosmetics to mentoring women and speaking openly about mental wellness, Hanne continues to inspire those seeking authenticity over fame. Living quietly but purposefully in Georgia, she proves that personal reinvention is not only possible—but powerful.
