Elle Macpherson Net Worth

Elle Macpherson: From Supermodel to Business Mogul – A Look at Her Net Worth and Career

Introduction

Elle Macpherson, a name synonymous with beauty, success, and entrepreneurial spirit, has carved a remarkable path from the runways of the world to the boardroom and beyond. With a net worth of $95 million, she has not only established herself as one of the most recognizable faces in the fashion industry but also as a savvy businesswoman. This article delves into the multifaceted career of Elle Macpherson, exploring her journey from a young Australian model to a global icon, her ventures in business, her acting roles, and her philanthropic work. We will also examine her personal life and the real estate she has acquired.

Early Life and Background

Born Eleanor Nancy Gow on March 29, 1964, in Killara, New South Wales, Australia, Elle Macpherson’s early life laid the foundation for her future success. Her parents, Frances, a nurse, and Peter Gow, a sound engineer, entrepreneur, and former president of the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks rugby team, divorced when she was 10 years old. This early experience may have instilled in her a resilience that would serve her well in her future career. Educated at Killara High School, she obtained her Higher School Certificate in 1981 before briefly studying law at the University of Sydney. This initial pursuit of law was soon overshadowed by the allure and opportunities of the modeling world.

The Reign of ‘The Body’: Modeling Career

Elle Macpherson’s modeling career began almost by chance. While visiting New York City, she signed with Click Model Management, beginning a career that would redefine the supermodel era. Her first modeling job was a 1982 Tab commercial, an early indication of her potential. The 1980s saw her grace the covers of numerous prestigious magazines, including “Cosmopolitan,” “Elle,” “GQ,” “Harper’s Bazaar,” and “Vogue.” Her association with “Elle” magazine was particularly notable, as she appeared on its cover for six consecutive years. In 1989, “Time” magazine famously nicknamed her “The Body” after her cover appearance, a testament to her stunning physique and enduring appeal. Macpherson holds the record for the most “Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue” covers, appearing five times (1986, 1987, 1988, 1994, and 2006). She also participated in runway shows for prominent designers such as Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Donna Karan, and Calvin Klein, and she has appeared in ad campaigns for Victoria’s Secret, Revlon, Diet Coke, Budweiser, and Chrysler, among others. Her modeling career cemented her status as a global icon, and she remains one of the most recognizable faces in the fashion world.

(Photo by Bruno Vincent/Getty Images)

Venturing Beyond the Runway: Business Career

Elle Macpherson’s ambition extended beyond the world of modeling, leading her to become a successful businesswoman. In 1994, she established Elle Macpherson Inc., launching a series of calendars and workout videos, including “Your Personal Best – The Body.” A key aspect of her business success was the creation of her lingerie line, Elle Macpherson Intimates, in collaboration with Bendon Limited Apparel. This line became the best-selling lingerie brand in Great Britain and Australia. Expanding her brand, she later introduced maternity bras and The Body beauty products, demonstrating her ability to identify and capitalize on market opportunities. She served on the board of directors for Hot Tuna Clothing for a year and in 2009, gave the Keynote Address at the International Trademark Association’s annual meeting. In 2014, she co-founded WelleCo, a wellness company that launched The Super Elixir, an alkalising wellness supplement. Her entrepreneurial efforts were recognized in 2005 when “Glamour” magazine named her Entrepreneur of the Year. In 2007, she received an Everywoman Ambassador Award, was named Lingerie Designer of the Year at the 2008 Femmy Awards, and earned a World Career Award from the Women’s World Awards in 2009. Her ability to build and manage successful businesses has further solidified her financial success.

Elle on Screen: Acting Roles

Elle Macpherson ventured into acting, adding another dimension to her already diverse career. Her first film role was in Woody Allen’s “Alice” (1990), marking her debut on the big screen. She went on to co-star with Hugh Grant in “Sirens” (1994). Other notable film appearances include “If Lucy Fell” (1996), “The Mirror Has Two Faces” (1996), and “Batman & Robin” (1997). She also hosted “Saturday Night Live.” Macpherson had a recurring role on the popular sitcom “Friends” (1999–2000), playing Joey Tribbiani’s roommate and love interest, Janine LaCroix. She continued to appear in films such as “South Kensington” (2001) and the short-lived teen drama series “The Beautiful Life” (2009). While her acting career did not overshadow her modeling and business ventures, it demonstrated her versatility and willingness to explore different avenues.

Personal Life and Relationships

Elle Macpherson’s personal life has been the subject of public interest, with several high-profile relationships. In the early 1980s, she was romantically involved with Billy Joel, who reportedly wrote the songs “And So It Goes” and “This Night” about her. In 1986, she married fashion photographer Gilles Bensimon, whom she had met at a photo shoot for “Elle” magazine. The couple divorced in 1989. From 1996 to 2005, she was in a relationship with financier Arpad Busson, with whom she has two sons: Arpad, born in 1998, and Aurelius, born in 2003. She later dated billionaire Jeffrey Soffer from 2009 to 2012, marrying him in July 2013, after a reconciliation following an accident. They announced their divorce in June 2017. In 2018, she began a relationship with Andrew Wakefield. In 1997, her home in Los Angeles was burglarized, and she also faced a home invasion in 2007.

Giving Back: Philanthropic Endeavors

Elle Macpherson is actively involved in philanthropic work. She has served as a European Ambassador for RED, an organization that raises funds for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. She is also an ambassador for UNICEF and the Smile Foundation. In 2012, she participated in an International Women’s Day campaign for Sky and is a patron of the National Association for the Children of Alcoholics. Her philanthropic work demonstrates her commitment to using her platform to make a positive impact on the world.

Real Estate Portfolio

Elle Macpherson has invested in real estate, including a luxurious home in Coral Gables, Florida, purchased for $8.1 million in 2018. The 9,000-square-foot property, featuring seven bedrooms and a saltwater pool, was fully renovated before she bought it. She listed it for sale in April 2022 for $29 million. She also purchased a 14,395 square-foot mansion in Aspen, Colorado, with Jeffrey Soffer for $36.5 million in 2007, which was later put on the market for $35 million in 2015. These real estate investments highlight her financial acumen and diversification of assets.

Conclusion

Elle Macpherson’s career trajectory exemplifies how talent, hard work, and a keen business sense can lead to enduring success. From her early days as a supermodel to her ventures in business, acting, and philanthropy, she has built a brand that continues to evolve. Her ability to adapt, innovate, and give back has solidified her status as a global icon with a lasting legacy.