Who Is Hanne Norgaard? The Quiet Life of Idris Elba’s First Wife

We all know Idris Elba—the award-winning actor, DJ, and global star. But before the fame and red carpets, there was someone special beside him: Hanne Norgaard.

Hanne is more than just Idris Elba’s first wife. She is a talented makeup artist, a businesswoman, and a strong mother. Even though she has worked with celebrities and lived through big life changes, she has always stayed calm, quiet, and focused on her own path.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Hanne’s life. From her early days and career in beauty to her marriage with Idris and her life today—we’ll walk through her full journey in a simple, clear, and respectful way.

Hanne Norgaard’s Profile  Summary

Hanne Norgaard’s Early Life and Background

Hanne Norgaard was born on April 5, 1977, in the United Kingdom. She comes from a mixed background. Her father is of African descent, and her mother, Kyue Nam Kim, is from South Korea.

But Hanne’s childhood wasn’t always easy. As a baby, she spent one year in a Korean orphanage. During that time, she was known as Nam Hee Kim. Years later, she tried to find her birth mother and even shared an old photo of them together. She was able to connect with her father through ancestry tools, but sadly, she couldn’t locate her mom.

Even with this pain in her past, Hanne moved forward and made a good life for herself. She took all that she had learned and turned it into strength.

Her Passion for Beauty and Makeup

From a young age, Hanne had a deep love for makeup and beauty. It wasn’t just a hobby for her—it was something she truly wanted to build her life around.

She admired how makeup could help people feel confident. She also saw it as a way to express style, culture, and identity. Her African-Asian roots helped shape her creative eye, giving her a unique sense of color and design.

Hanne didn’t just dream—she worked hard to turn that dream into a real job.

Hanne Norgaard’s Education in Makeup

Hanne wanted to be the best at what she did. So she chose to study makeup professionally. Between 2004 and 2006, she went to the SC Institute in Washington, DC, where she earned a Diploma with Highest Honours in Makeup Artistry.

But she didn’t stop there. She later studied at the International Makeup Academy in Europe. There, she learned even more—makeup, nails, hair styling, and special effects. She also graduated with the highest honors from that school too.

These studies gave her all the tools she needed to enter the beauty world with confidence and skill.

Her Career as a Makeup Artist

After school, Hanne started working—and she quickly built a name for herself. She worked with many well-known companies like BET, BBC, Columbia Tristar, Ralph Lauren, Rolling Out, and Calvin Klein.

But even more impressive was her list of celebrity clients. She did makeup for stars like Robin Williams, Geena Davis, Shaquille O’Neal, and yes—Idris Elba, her future husband.

People in the industry respected her for her quiet professionalism and attention to detail. She didn’t chase the spotlight. Instead, she let her work speak for itself.

Her Beauty Brands and Business Success

In 2000, Hanne founded her own makeup company, called Kim Elba Makeup Artistry NY. It was based in New York and quickly became known for its creative, high-end makeup looks.

Then, in 2007, she launched Makeup Your Mind Inc., a traveling beauty service that offered makeup sessions internationally. It wasn’t just about applying makeup—Hanne also became a guest speaker, educator, and beauty writer, contributing to magazines like BET Online and Rolling Out.

In 2016, her hard work was recognized when she received the BEFFTA Lifetime Achievement Award—a big honor in the beauty and fashion world.

Hanne Norgaard and Idris Elba’s Love Story

Before Idris Elba became famous, he was just an aspiring actor in London. That’s where he met Hanne Norgaard. They fell in love and decided to move to New York together to chase his dream.

They got married in 1999. Hanne believed in him completely, even when they had very little. Idris struggled at first—his British accent made it hard for him to land roles in American films. They didn’t have much money, and life was tough.

But through it all, Hanne stood by his side. She supported him while building her own career. In 2002, they had their daughter, Isan Elba.

Why Hanne Norgaard and Idris Elba Divorced

Unfortunately, their marriage didn’t last. Just one year after Isan was born, Hanne and Idris decided to separate. They officially divorced in 2003, after four years of marriage.

The exact reason has never been shared, but money problems, stress, and the beginning of Idris’s rising fame likely played a role. Hanne later said she never doubted his talent—but the sudden shift in attention and lifestyle brought challenges.

She also made a quiet promise to her daughter—to never speak publicly about the marriage. She has kept that promise to this day.

Hanne Norgaard’s Second Marriage and New Life

After her divorce, Hanne Norgaard chose peace over noise. She focused on her work and on raising her daughter. She stayed away from interviews and never spoke badly about the past. This quiet choice helped her heal and move forward.

Years later, love found her again. In 2014, Hanne married Andrew L. Friar II, a kind and calm pastor. Their wedding was simple and beautiful. It took place by the beach at Treasure Island, followed by a yacht celebration with close family and friends. No drama. Just joy.

Today, Hanne lives in Georgia and serves as the First Lady at Heart Strong Church. She supports her husband’s work and helps the community. Her life now feels steady, warm, and full of purpose.

Hanne Norgaard’s Mental Health Journey

In 2019, a very personal truth came to light. Hanne’s daughter shared that her mother had struggled with bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety. This was not shared for attention. It was shared to help others feel less alone.

Hanne had kept this private for many years. Like many people, she smiled on the outside while fighting quiet battles inside. When she finally opened up to her daughter, it became a healing moment for both of them.

That same year, a donation was made to a mental health charity in her daughter’s name. It helped raise awareness and showed that talking about mental health can lead to real change.

Life as a Mother to Isan Elba

Hanne’s greatest role has always been being a mother. Her daughter, Isan Elba, was born in 2002 and grew up with strong love from both parents. Even after the divorce, Hanne and Idris Elba stayed respectful and worked together as parents.

In 2019, Isan was named Golden Globe Ambassador. It was a proud moment for Hanne. She stood back quietly while her daughter stepped into the spotlight with grace and confidence.

Isan has shared that she wants to work in film and entertainment. Acting, producing, and even directing interest her. Hanne supports her fully, just like she always has.

Where Is Hanne Norgaard Now?

As of 2025, Hanne Norgaard lives a calm and private life in Georgia. She still works in beauty and runs her businesses, but she does not chase fame. She chooses balance instead.

She spends time with her husband, supports her church, and stays close to her daughter. She also keeps a low profile online, sharing only what feels right to her.

Many people still search for Hanne Norgaard today. Not because of gossip. But because her story feels real and human.

Final Thoughts

So, who is Hanne Norgaard? She is not just Idris Elba’s first wife. She is a woman who faced loss, pressure, and health struggles—and still built a strong life.

Her journey shows that you do not need to be loud to be powerful. You can choose privacy and still succeed. You can face pain and still grow.

Hanne Norgaard’s story is about grace, strength, and moving forward. And that is what makes her truly inspiring.

You may also read:Understanding the Importance of Oaths in Islam