Hanne Norgaard Age, Net Worth, Career & Husband 2026
Hanne Norgaard is a British-American makeup artist, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate who has built an impressive career in the beauty industry.
While many recognize her as the first wife of acclaimed actor Idris Elba, her accomplishments extend far beyond this association.
Born on April 5, 1977, Hanne has established herself as a talented professional, working with major production companies, launching her own cosmetic lines, and championing diversity in beauty.
Her multicultural heritage and dedication to inclusivity have made her a respected figure in fashion and entertainment circles worldwide.
Quick Facts About Hanne Norgaard
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Hanne Kim Norgaard |
| Date of Birth | April 5, 1977 |
| Age | 48 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | United Kingdom |
| Nationality | British-American |
| Ethnicity | African-American and South Korean |
| Profession | Makeup Artist, Entrepreneur, Writer |
| Net Worth | Estimated $900,000 – $1 Million |
| Ex-Husband | Idris Elba (m. 1999 – div. 2003) |
| Current Husband | Pastor Andrew L. Friar II (m. 2013) |
| Children | Isan Elba (daughter, born 2002) |
| Famous For | Professional makeup artistry, Kim Elba Cosmetics |
| Education | International Artist Makeup Academy, SC Institute Washington DC |
Early Life and Background
Hanne Norgaard was born in the United Kingdom on April 5, 1977, making her 48 years old as of 2026. Her early life was marked by a unique cultural journey that shaped her identity and career.
Multicultural Heritage
Hanne comes from a diverse background with African-American and South Korean roots. Her mother, Kyue Nam Kim, is from South Korea, while her father is African-American. This multicultural upbringing gave her a distinctive perspective on beauty standards.
Childhood and Adoption
Hanne spent her first year in a Korean orphanage under the name Nam Hee Kim. She was later adopted by Danish parents who raised her in Europe. This experience of navigating different cultures influenced her approach to inclusive beauty.
Early Interest in Beauty
From a young age, Hanne showed a passion for art, colors, and fashion. She loved drawing and experimenting with makeup, which laid the foundation for her future career. Her multicultural background helped her appreciate beauty in all its diverse forms.
Education and Training
Hanne Norgaard pursued professional training to refine her natural talent and passion for makeup artistry. Her educational journey equipped her with the skills needed to succeed in the competitive beauty industry.
International Artist Makeup Academy
Hanne attended the prestigious International Artist Makeup Academy in London, where she learned advanced techniques in makeup application, hairstyling, and special effects. She graduated in 1992 with comprehensive training that prepared her for professional work.
SC Institute in Washington, DC
Between 2004 and 2006, Hanne furthered her education at the SC Institute in Washington, DC. She studied various aspects of beauty, including hair, nails, special effects, and advanced makeup techniques. She completed this program with the highest honors.
Language Skills
Thanks to her international upbringing, Hanne speaks multiple languages, including English and Dutch. This linguistic ability has helped her connect with diverse clients throughout her career.
Professional Career Journey
Hanne Norgaard built an impressive career in the beauty and fashion industry through dedication, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit. Her professional journey spans television, film, fashion, and business ventures.
Early Career at BBC
In 1992, Hanne landed her first major professional role with the BBC, where she worked as a makeup artist for television productions. This opportunity allowed her to develop her skills on high-profile British TV shows, including Absolutely Fabulous and Birds of a Feather.
Columbia TriStar and Major Productions
Just one year after joining the BBC, Hanne became a principal makeup artist for Columbia TriStar. This role elevated her career and gave her experience working on film and television sets with major production companies.
Celebrity Clientele
Throughout her career, Hanne has worked with numerous high-profile celebrities and entertainment personalities. Her impressive client list includes Robin Williams, Shaquille O’Neal, Geena Davis, Thandie Newton, and Angie Stone. Her ability to enhance natural beauty while respecting diverse features made her highly sought-after.
Fashion Industry Collaborations
Hanne’s expertise extended beyond entertainment into the fashion world. She collaborated with prestigious brands including Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and Sean Combs. Her work appeared in fashion shows, magazine shoots, and advertising campaigns.
Work on Popular Television Shows
Hanne contributed her makeup artistry skills to several popular British television programs, including The X Factor and Britain’s Next Top Model. These high-profile projects further solidified her reputation as a talented and reliable professional.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Beyond working as a makeup artist, Hanne Norgaard demonstrated exceptional business acumen by launching her own beauty companies and product lines.
Make Up Your Mind Inc.
In 2007, Hanne founded Make Up Your Mind Inc., a beauty company offering makeup services, personal styling, and themed events. This venture allowed her to share her expertise while building a loyal client base in the United States.
Kim Elba Cosmetics
In 2016, Hanne launched Kim Elba Cosmetics, a cosmetic line specifically designed for multicultural beauty. The brand focuses on inclusive products that cater to diverse skin tones, emphasizing cruelty-free and paraben-free formulations.
Business Philosophy
Hanne’s business ventures reflect her commitment to inclusivity and representation. She noticed the lack of quality beauty products for women of color during her career, which inspired her to create solutions that serve all skin tones equally.
Advocacy for Diversity in Beauty
Through her companies and professional work, Hanne has consistently advocated for diversity in the beauty industry. She participated in events like “My Black is Beautiful,” which celebrates Black beauty and challenges narrow beauty standards in society.
Relationship with Idris Elba
Hanne Norgaard’s relationship with actor Idris Elba brought her into the public spotlight, though their love story predated his Hollywood fame.
Meeting and Marriage
Hanne met Idris Elba in London during the late 1990s when both were building their careers. She was approximately 22 years old, and he was about 27. They fell in love and married in 1999, supporting each other’s dreams.
Move to New York
After their marriage, the couple relocated to New York City to pursue better opportunities for Idris’s acting career. The early years were challenging, with Idris working various jobs, including as a bouncer and laborer, while auditioning for acting roles.
Birth of Daughter Isan
In 2002, Hanne and Idris welcomed their daughter, Isan Elba. The birth of their child brought joy but also added pressure to their already strained relationship as Idris’s career began to take off.
Separation and Divorce
The couple separated in 2003, just four years after their marriage. The demands of Idris’s rising career, combined with the challenges of maintaining a high-profile relationship, contributed to their divorce. Despite the separation, they maintained mutual respect.
Co-Parenting Relationship
After their divorce, Hanne and Idris established a healthy co-parenting relationship focused on raising their daughter with love and stability. They both prioritize Isan’s wellbeing and have remained cordial for her sake.
Second Marriage to Pastor Andrew L. Friar II
After her divorce from Idris Elba, Hanne Norgaard found love again and rebuilt her personal life with faith and community at the center.
Meeting Pastor Andrew L. Friar II
Hanne met Pastor Andrew L. Friar II through church and community connections. Their relationship was built on shared values, faith, and a commitment to helping others.
Wedding in 2013
In 2013, Hanne married Pastor Andrew L. Friar II in a private yacht ceremony. The intimate celebration reflected their preference for privacy and meaningful connections over public attention.
Life as First Lady
As the wife of a pastor, Hanne embraced her role as First Lady of her husband’s church in Georgia. She actively participates in church activities and community outreach through Heart Strong Ministry.
Current Life in Georgia
Hanne and her husband currently reside in Georgia, where they focus on faith, family, and community service. This chapter of her life emphasizes spiritual growth and helping others find guidance.
Daughter Isan Elba
Hanne’s daughter with Idris Elba has grown into an accomplished young woman in her own right, making both parents proud.
Birth and Early Life
Isan Elba was born in 2002 during Hanne and Idris’s marriage. Despite her parents’ divorce when she was just one year old, Isan grew up with love and support from both sides of her family.
Following in Parents’ Footsteps
Isan has pursued opportunities in entertainment and modeling, showing interest in the industries that her parents work in. She has appeared at various events and fashion shows.
Mental Health Advocacy
In 2019, Isan publicly shared that her mother Hanne has struggled with anxiety and bipolar depression. This openness helped reduce stigma around mental health issues, especially in communities where such topics are rarely discussed.
Strong Mother-Daughter Bond
Hanne and Isan share a close relationship. Hanne’s willingness to be open about her mental health challenges has inspired Isan to become a mental health advocate herself.
Mental Health Advocacy
One of Hanne Norgaard’s most admirable contributions is her openness about mental health struggles and her advocacy for mental wellness.
Personal Mental Health Journey
Hanne has been candid about her battles with chronic anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression. Her willingness to share these experiences has helped many people feel less alone in their own struggles.
Breaking Stigma
By speaking openly about mental health, especially as a woman of color, Hanne has helped break down stigma in communities where mental illness is often misunderstood or hidden. Her advocacy has encouraged others to seek help.
Impact on Daughter and Others
Hanne’s openness about her mental health journey directly influenced her daughter Isan to become a mental health advocate. This generational impact demonstrates the power of vulnerability and honesty.
Platform for Awareness
Through her social media and public appearances, Hanne uses her platform to promote mental health awareness, share resources, and encourage people to prioritize their emotional wellbeing alongside physical health.
Hanne Norgaard’s Net Worth 2026
Hanne Norgaard has built substantial wealth through her diverse career in beauty, entrepreneurship, and business ventures.
Estimated Net Worth
As of 2026, Hanne Norgaard’s net worth is estimated to be between $900,000 and $1 million. Different sources provide varying estimates, but most agree her wealth falls within this range.
Sources of Income
Hanne’s income comes from multiple streams, including her work as a professional makeup artist, her beauty businesses (Make Up Your Mind Inc. and Kim Elba Cosmetics), teaching and mentorship, brand collaborations, and writing projects.
Financial Independence
What makes Hanne’s financial success noteworthy is that she built it independently through her own skills and entrepreneurial efforts. Her wealth reflects years of consistent work rather than sudden windfall or celebrity association.
Business Success
The success of Kim Elba Cosmetics and Make Up Your Mind Inc. demonstrates Hanne’s business acumen. Her focus on inclusive beauty products arrived at the right time as consumer demand for diversity increased.
Physical Appearance
Hanne Norgaard maintains a professional and elegant appearance that reflects her career in the beauty industry.
Height and Weight
Hanne stands approximately 5 feet 2 inches (157 cm) tall and weighs around 67 kg (148 lbs). Her petite frame complements her graceful presence in both professional and personal settings.
Distinctive Features
Hanne’s mixed African-American and South Korean heritage gives her unique and striking features. She has black hair and dark eyes that reflect her multicultural background.
Age and Zodiac Sign
Born on April 5, 1977, Hanne is 48 years old as of 2026. Her zodiac sign is Aries, known for traits like determination, passion, and leadership—all qualities evident in her career.
Social Media Presence
Hanne Norgaard maintains a presence on social media platforms where she connects with followers and shares aspects of her professional life.
Instagram Activity
Hanne has an Instagram account (@norgaardhanne) where she shares beauty tips, motivational content, and glimpses into her work. Her posts reflect her commitment to positivity and self-confidence.
Educational Content
Through social media, Hanne educates followers about makeup techniques, skincare routines, and beauty industry insights. She uses her platform to mentor aspiring makeup artists.
Privacy Balance
While Hanne maintains social media accounts, she values privacy and doesn’t overshare personal details. Her online presence focuses on professional content and inspirational messages rather than intimate family matters.
Legacy and Impact
Hanne Norgaard’s influence extends beyond her immediate work in makeup artistry to broader contributions to beauty, diversity, and mental health awareness.
Pioneer for Inclusive Beauty
Hanne was advocating for diversity in beauty long before it became mainstream. Her early recognition of the need for products serving all skin tones positioned her as a pioneer in inclusive beauty.
Inspiration to Women of Color
As a successful woman with African-American and South Korean heritage, Hanne serves as an inspiration to women of color pursuing careers in beauty, fashion, and entrepreneurship.
Professional Excellence
Hanne’s career demonstrates that excellence, professionalism, and creativity can lead to lasting success. Her reputation as a skilled and reliable makeup artist has remained strong throughout her career.
Identity Beyond Association
Perhaps most importantly, Hanne has shown that it’s possible to be known for a famous relationship while still maintaining an independent identity and successful career built on personal merit.
Current Life and Activities
As of 2026, Hanne Norgaard continues to be active in the beauty industry while focusing on family and faith.
Ongoing Beauty Work
Hanne remains involved in makeup artistry, though she may take on fewer projects than during the peak of her career. She continues to share her expertise through her businesses and mentorship.
Church and Community Involvement
As First Lady of her husband’s church, Hanne participates actively in community outreach and spiritual guidance programs. Her work with Heart Strong Ministry reflects her commitment to helping others.
Family Focus
Hanne prioritizes time with her husband, daughter, and extended family. Her life in Georgia provides a more private, grounded lifestyle compared to her earlier years in the public eye.
Continued Advocacy
Hanne continues her mental health advocacy work, using her platform to encourage others and share resources for those struggling with similar challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Hanne Norgaard?
Hanne Norgaard is a British-American makeup artist, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate known for her work in the beauty industry and as the first wife of actor Idris Elba.
What is Hanne Norgaard’s age in 2026?
Hanne Norgaard was born on April 5, 1977, making her 48 years old as of 2026. She continues to be active in her professional endeavors.
What is Hanne Norgaard’s net worth?
Hanne Norgaard’s estimated net worth ranges between $900,000 and $1 million as of 2026, earned through her makeup artistry career and beauty businesses.
Is Hanne Norgaard still married to Idris Elba?
No, Hanne Norgaard and Idris Elba divorced in 2003 after four years of marriage. She is currently married to Pastor Andrew L. Friar II since 2013.
What is Hanne Norgaard’s ethnicity?
Hanne Norgaard is of mixed ethnicity with an African-American father and South Korean mother, giving her a unique multicultural background that influenced her career.
Does Hanne Norgaard have children?
Yes, Hanne Norgaard has one daughter, Isan Elba, born in 2002 from her marriage to Idris Elba. Isan has become a mental health advocate.
What companies has Hanne Norgaard founded?
Hanne Norgaard founded Make Up Your Mind Inc. in 2007 and launched Kim Elba Cosmetics in 2016, both focusing on inclusive beauty services and products.
Where did Hanne Norgaard study makeup artistry?
Hanne studied at the International Artist Makeup Academy in London and later attended the SC Institute in Washington, DC, graduating with highest honors.
What celebrities has Hanne Norgaard worked with?
Hanne has worked with numerous celebrities including Robin Williams, Shaquille O’Neal, Geena Davis, Thandie Newton, and Angie Stone throughout her career.
What mental health issues has Hanne Norgaard discussed?
Hanne Norgaard has openly discussed her struggles with chronic anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, using her platform to reduce stigma and promote mental health awareness.
Conclusion
Hanne Norgaard exemplifies how talent, determination, and authenticity can create a meaningful legacy in any industry.
While her connection to Idris Elba initially brought her public attention, she has proven time and again that her identity and achievements stand firmly on their own merit.
From her early days learning makeup artistry to launching successful beauty businesses, Hanne has consistently championed diversity and inclusion in an industry that often overlooked multicultural beauty.
Her journey from the United Kingdom through Europe and eventually to the United States demonstrates resilience and adaptability.
Her work with major production companies, prestigious fashion brands, and high-profile celebrities established her as a respected professional.
More importantly, her entrepreneurial ventures like Kim Elba Cosmetics addressed real gaps in the beauty market, providing quality products for all skin tones.
