When it comes to hero stories, celebrities tend to get all the credit. Yet, often, it is the man or woman next to the star who has a little gem of a story to tell. Hanne Norgaard is an example of it. To most, she is recognized as the first wife of renowned actor Idris Elba, but Hanne’s story is more profound — one of talent, determination, entrepreneurship, and silent influence.
Before partnering with Hollywood, did you realize that Hanne created an international career as a makeup artist? Or that her daughter , Isan Elba, is an emerging public figure and activist in her own right? This article breaks down the whole story behind Hanne’s journey — from her beginnings, career shifts, family, and motherhood to her life and legacy today.
Along the way, we will use actual statistics to answer the most-searched questions and show why Hanne Norgaard’s story matters. This blog is for you if you have been wondering about the woman in the news.
Who Is Hanne Norgaard? A Closer Look at Her Background
For many, the first introduction to Hanne Norgaard was through her marriage to Idris Elba, but what else is there behind that headline? Hanne Kim Norgaard was born on April 5, 1977, in London and was raised in a mixed-race household. South Korean mother and Danish father provided Hanne with an exceptional heritage that influenced her outlook and determination.
She grew up between London and Europe and was exposed to a variety of cultures. Hanne’s love for beauty and fashion revealed itself when she was very young, and she ventured into the beauty business at a relatively young age. She was educated at London’s top makeup schools, paving the way for her career as an elite makeup artist.
How Did Hanne Norgaard Start Her Career in Makeup and Beauty?
Hanne’s career first took her into the cutthroat business of European beauty. She freelanced for other brands and private clients, developing a reputation for artistry and professionalism. She moved to the United States in her early 20s, and the change would define her professional and personal life.
Career Highlights of Hanne Norgaard:
- Trained in London as a professional makeup artist.
- Worked on European runway shows, fashion shoots, and TV sets.
- She relocated to New York and broadened her clientele to include celebrities and big brands.
- Launched her own business, Kim Elba Cosmetics.
- Work Experience: Beauty Consultant For Film, Television, and Print.
We were impressed with Hanne’s work ethic and her artistic eye – she was an artist in demand and respected by both peers and clients.
How Did Hanne Meet Idris Elba, and What Was Their Relationship Like?
The tale of Hanne Norgaard and Idris Elba begins in late 1990s London. The couple met early in their lives when both were still young and eager. They wed in 1999 and soon moved to New York City, where Idris was chasing his acting dreams , and Hanne was expanding her career in beauty.
Their marriage was a time of change, excitement, and the difficulties of starting over in a new country. Their daughter, Isan Elba, was born in 2002. For the next year, though, Hanne and Idris would grow apart. And thrice-married star He and Hanne have continued to enjoy a cordial relationship post-divorce, co-parenting Isan and even cheering her on at her public engagements.
Did Hanne Norgaard Remarry?
Yes. Hanne wed the Rev. Andrew L. Friar II, a pastor in Atlanta, in 2013. She is a member of his church community, and she keeps up with her role as a beauty consultant and business owner.
What Is Hanne Norgaard’s Professional Legacy?
Although Hanne is well known today for her marriage, it is her work and advocacy that is her true legacy.
Kim Elba Cosmetics and Business Achievements
After getting settled in the U.S., Hanne launched Kim Elba Cosmetics, a cosmetics company that prioritizes inclusive makeup for all skin tones. Her products have appeared on TV sets, at photo shoots, and in the hands of private clients. Hanne also has her mentoring program for aspiring makeup artists called “Makeup Your Mind.”
Her business ethos revolves around empowerment, helping women to feel confident in their skin and celebrate all aspects of beauty. As Hanne told Atlanta’s Channel 2 in 2023:
“Beauty is about feeling strong in your skin. My work is not limited to makeup. It’s about training people to see themselves the way they want to be seen.”
Film and Television Work
The art of Hanne has been featured in:
- American and British TV shows
- Runways and photo Fashion campaigns
- Celeb galas, weddings, and special events
What About Hanne Norgaard’s Role as a Mother?
Proud roles: “I’m a mom to Isan Elba. Now a rising public figure, Isan has been open about her relationship with both of her parents. She attributes that grounding, as well as her ambition and compassion, to her mother.
Isan Elba is best known as the 2019 Golden Globe Ambassador; she also has campaigned for mental health and diversity. Hanne is frequently photographed cheering on her daughter at public events, but she cherishes privacy and prefers to celebrate Isan’s accomplishments discreetly.
What Is Hanne Norgaard Doing in 2025?
Hanne currently resides in Atlanta, managing her cosmetics company and working with outreach programs as of 2025. She teams up with her husband, Pastor Friar, to support local charities and church programs dealing with the empowerment of women and mental well-being.
Hanne, What Do Folks Say About You?
Her clients call her “kind, humble, and generous.”
But everyone said she “cares about documentation.” Colleagues recount her “attention to detail and encouragement for young artists.”
“My mom is my rock — she showed me how to believe in myself even when things are tough,” her daughter, Isa, has said.
How Has Hanne Norgaard Built Her Reputation for Expertise?
The Google-E-A-T factors (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) stand out in Hanne’s writing:
I have over 20 years of hands-on experience as an industry-qualified makeup artist.
Tapped by brands and TV producers for beauty expertise.
Conducts educational workshops and apprenticeships for artists.
Appearances in interviews from prestigious publications (e.g., Ebony Magazine, Channel 2 Atlanta).
Experience is of the same importance:
Hanne provides practical wisdom from her lived experience with adversity, divorce, single parenting, entrepreneurship, and cross-cultural adaptation.
What Are Some Key Moments in Hanne Norgaard’s Life?
- 1999: WEDS IDRIS ELBA IN LONDON.
- 2002: Daughter Isan Elba is born.
- 2003: Idris Elba’s divorce. The two had met at an engagement party for his “The Wire” co-star, and after two-and-change years of marriage, the sparks fizzled.
- 2007: Introduces Kim Elba Cosmetics.
- 2013: Marries Pastor Andrew Friar II and relocates to Atlanta.
- 2019: Daughter Isan named Golden Globe Ambassador.
- 2020-25: Grows her beauty business and nurtures new artists.
What Sets Hanne Norgaard Apart?
Cross-cultural bona fides: Mixes Korean and Danish descent with British and American experience.
- Makeup career: More than 20 years in fashion, film, and personal beauty.
- Entrepreneur: Creator and C.E.O. of Kim Elba Cosmetics.
- Motherhood: Raised Isan Elba, a public activist and model.
- Advocacy: Actively involved in church and community efforts in Atlanta.
- Mentorship: Trains and mentors budding makeup artists through “Makeup Your Mind.”
- Privacy: Preserves decency and secrecy in society.
What Is Hanne Norgaard’s Net Worth and Lifestyle in 2025?
As of 2025, Celebrity.com puts Hanne Norgaard’s net worth at around $1 million – $2 million. She has made her fortune from a cosmetics business, consulting, and media appearances. In Atlanta, Hanne lives comfortably and modestly, quietly emphasizing worldly faith and family.
What Do We Know About Hanne Norgaard’s Daughter, Isan Elba?
Isan Elba has her mother’s passion and drive.
- She was born in 2002, so she is 23.
- 2019 Golden Globe Ambassador.
- Mental health and diversity activist.
- Current acting, producing, and public speaking.
Hanne encourages Isan’s activism and has opened up about the difficulties of raising a daughter in the spotlight — and the satisfaction of doing it well.
Has Hanne Norgaard Spoken About Her Experience?
Hanne has limited the number of interviews she does, but when she does talk, it’s with a straightforward tone that helps lift up others.
— At a Q&A event in Atlanta in 2023:
“I’ve witnessed a lot — good and evil. The thought of knowing that I can make someone’s day better through makeup or by saying something nice. “We all have a gift to give.
The divorcee made no secret of the difficulties of emigrating and starting from scratch in America, often sharing stories about moving on despite adversity and how she wanted other women to pursue their dreams despite the difficulties encountered.
What Are Common Myths and Facts About Hanne Norgaard?
- Myth: Hanne is only known for being married to Idris Elba.
- Fact: Hanne was successful in her own right before meeting Idris, and she is building on her legacy.
- Myth: She is Danish-born and bred.
- Fact: Hanne is of Korean and Danish descent, making her story a multicultural one.
- Myth: She is not involved in the beauty industry.
- Fact: Hanne remains a working makeup artist, business owner, and mentor.
How Does Hanne Norgaard Use Her Platform for Advocacy?
Hanne supports:
- Women’s empowerment: Through business coaching and community outreach.
- Mental health awareness: Inspired by her daughter and by her own experience.
- Beauty diversity: Her namesake cosmetics brand caters to diverse skin tones.
Lavoie thinks beauty should connect with everyone.
Why Does Hanne Norgaard Prefer a Private Life?
Hanne is not one of the many connected to the celebrity world who are afraid of privacy. She steers clear of tabloids and reveals only what she feels like revealing. She guards her family’s peace and has always thought that “real impact does not have to come with constant visibility.”
FAQs
Who is Hanne Norgaard?
She is a British-American professional makeup artist, businesswoman, and the first wife of Idris Elba. She is also a community advocate and mentor.
How old is Hanne Norgaard?
She was born on April 5, 1977, so she will be 48 in 2025.
How much is Hanne Norgaard worth?
She is believed to have a net worth of between $1 million and $2 million.
Is Hanne Norgaard married?
Yes, she did marry Pastor Andrew Friar II in 2013 after her divorce from Idris Elba.
Does Hanne Norgaard have any children?
Yes, she shares one daughter, Isan Elba, with Idris Elba.
What is Hanne Norgaard’s ethnicity?
She is of Korean and Danish descent.
What is Hanne Norgaard doing now?
She does consulting work for the makeup company Kim Elba Cosmetics and guides young makeup artists. She is a Lutheran and a leader in Atlanta’s community and church.
Where does Hanne Norgaard reside?
She lives in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A.
Is Hanne Norgaard active on social media?
Her pages are set to private, and she has a low online profile.
Conclusion: What Can We Learn from Hanne Norgaard’s Journey?
Hanne Norgaard’s story isn’t just a celebrity footnote, however. It’s about accepting change, making beauty, and forging a purposeful life on her terms. From London to New York, from the studios to the stage, from motherhood to entrepreneurship and mentorship, Hanne’s journey is an inspiring testament to the truth about what resilience, creativity, and quiet strength in self-belief look like.
For anyone looking for inspiration, it’s that Hanne’s journey has shown that the most impactful work is sometimes done outside the spotlight. It’s an affirmation of hard work, growth, and the ability to help others shine.
