It’s not every day that you come across an intriguing character like Atila Altaunbay, a man known more for his relationship with an iconic music legend than his personal accomplishments. Altaunbay, of Turkish origin, shot into the public eye due to his marriage to the renowned Jamaican-American singer, actress, and model Grace Jones. His story is one that combines elements of romance, fame, and a dash of mystery.
Early Life and Background
Atila Altaunbay was welcomed into this world in 1976, born to a Muslim family in Turkey. However, it was in the heartlands of Belgium where he spent the lion’s share of his early life. It was here, in this Western European nation, that Altaunbay not only pursued his education but also honed his physical prowess, developing skills in martial arts and self-defense. This grounding in personal security would later play a crucial role in shaping his life’s trajectory.
The young Altaunbay grew up imbued with the rich cultural heritage of his birthplace, Turkey, while simultaneously being exposed to the diverse cultural panorama that is Europe. This unique blend of East and West in his upbringing would later be reflected in his multi-faceted career and personal interests.
Career Beginnings
Before he stepped into the limelight as Grace Jones’ partner, Altaunbay was building a career in personal security. He worked as a bodyguard in Europe, where he provided protection services to high-profile individuals. His career choice was a natural progression, given his skill set and training in martial arts and self-defense.
But the man was not all brawn. Altaunbay harbored interests in the performing arts, occasionally showcasing his singing talents at events, and even taking up acting roles in stage plays and movies. This duality in his career choices, the balance of brute strength and sensitive artistry, painted a fascinating picture of the man who would later capture the heart of a music legend.
Meeting Grace Jones
Altaunbay’s life took a dramatic turn when he was hired as a bodyguard for none other than Grace Jones. The formidable Jamaican-American singer, known for her androgynous looks and larger-than-life persona, was a force to be reckoned with in the global music scene. When Altaunbay was tasked with the responsibility of her safety, little did he know that his life was about to change forever.
Their professional relationship, initially centered around protection and security, evolved into a romance that caught the world’s attention. Despite a significant age gap of 27 years, Altaunbay and Jones found common ground and a connection that transcended societal norms. The bodyguard and the music diva were deeply in love, setting the stage for a private wedding ceremony that would take place in Brazil in 1996.
Altaunbay’s life was no longer just his own. As Grace Jones’ husband, he was now part of a larger narrative, one that combined fame, music, romance, and the inevitable scrutiny that comes with being in a relationship with a celebrity.
Marriage to Grace Jones
Altaunbay’s relationship with Grace Jones transitioned from professional to personal, culminating in a private wedding ceremony held in Brazil in 1996. The age gap of 27 years between them was hardly a deterrent. Instead, it added another layer of intrigue to their relationship. As Jones’ husband, Altaunbay was now part of a larger narrative, one intertwined with fame, music, and love, thrusting him into the spotlight.
It was an unconventional union that defied societal norms and traditional expectations. Grace Jones, with her commanding presence in the global music scene, and Atila Altaunbay, a Turkish-born bodyguard turned husband, made for a compelling pair. Their love story was a testament to their shared connection and mutual respect, transcending the boundaries of age and profession.
Challenges and Cultural Opposition
However, their union was not without its share of hurdles. The cultural opposition from Altaunbay’s family was a significant challenge. His Muslim background and Turkish roots posed a stark contrast to Jones’ flamboyant lifestyle as a global music icon. This cultural divide was a source of tension, impacting their relationship and making their journey together strenuous at times.
Apart from cultural differences, they also faced personal issues. Jones cited Altaunbay’s territorial behavior as a significant reason that strained their relationship. The complexities of their lives, coupled with the pressures of public scrutiny, made their marital journey a challenging one.
Separation and Life After Grace Jones
Despite the love they shared, their marriage was marked by struggles that eventually led to their separation. The couple did not have any children together and they never officially divorced. Following their separation, Altaunbay retreated from the public eye, choosing a life of privacy over the glare of public attention.
Post-separation, Altaunbay dedicated his time and energy to causes close to his heart. He became involved with the organization, Helping Hand Belgium, serving as its chairman and contributing to efforts against inequality and poverty. This shift in focus indicated a new chapter in Altaunbay’s life, one marked by philanthropy and social work.
Even though his marriage to Jones was a significant part of his life, Altaunbay proved that there was more to him than just being the husband of a music icon. His post-separation life was a testament to his resilience and his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Philanthropic Efforts and Private Life
After his separation from Grace Jones, Atila Altaunbay chose a life that was far removed from the glitz and glamour of celebrity culture. He sought solace in helping others, dedicating his energy and resources to noble causes. Altaunbay became actively involved in Helping Hand Belgium, an organization committed to combating inequality and poverty.
As chairman of Helping Hand Belgium, he worked tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. His philanthropic efforts were not just limited to financial contributions. Altaunbay often went out into the field, interacting with the people his organization supported, understanding their needs, and finding ways to make their lives better.
Altaunbay’s change of pace also saw him embracing a more private lifestyle. He remained out of the public eye, choosing a quiet life in Belgium over the constant media attention that his relationship with Grace Jones had brought him. Despite his newfound private life, Altaunbay continued to indulge in his passion for the performing arts, frequently singing at local events and even appearing in a few stage plays and films.
Death and Legacy
In October 2021, Atila Altaunbay passed away in Antwerp, Belgium, at the age of 45. The cause of his death remains undisclosed, adding an element of mystery to his already intriguing life story. His funeral was held at the Antwerpen Mehmet Akif Mosque, a solemn event attended by close family and friends.
Altaunbay’s life was a blend of highs and lows, personal triumphs, and professional challenges. From his humble beginnings in Turkey to his high-profile marriage to Grace Jones and his philanthropic work in Belgium, Altaunbay lived a life that was as diverse as it was captivating. His legacy remains that of a man who loved deeply, lived passionately, and made a significant impact on the lives of those around him.
While his marriage to Grace Jones brought him into the spotlight, Altaunbay’s life was far more than just his relationship with the music icon. He pursued a multi-faceted career, dabbled in the performing arts, and dedicated his later years to philanthropy. His life, though marked by ups and downs, serves as a reminder that there is always more to a person than meets the eye.
Conclusion
Atila Altaunbay’s life story is a captivating narrative of personal growth, love, challenges, and resilience. Though he was often in the shadows of his famous wife, Altaunbay was a man of substance in his own right. His story serves as an inspiration, a testament to the power of resilience, the beauty of passion, and the joy of helping others. Altaunbay might have left the world at a relatively young age, but his legacy continues to thrive through his philanthropic efforts, making the world a better place one step at a time.
Also Check:
