5 Surprising Facts About Hanne Nørgaard: Unveiling The Private Life Of Idris Elba's First Wife

Few people know the full story of Hanne 'Kim' Nørgaard, the accomplished professional makeup artist who was the first wife of global superstar Idris Elba. While the spotlight often focuses on the actor's current high-profile marriage, Nørgaard's own journey from a young woman in the UK to a respected beauty entrepreneur and the mother of Idris Elba's eldest child, Isan Elba, is a compelling narrative of independence and quiet success. As of December 2025, Nørgaard continues to build her career and maintain a private life, a stark contrast to the relentless media attention surrounding her famous ex-husband.

Their marriage, which spanned four pivotal years in the late 1990s and early 2000s, remains a crucial, foundational chapter in Idris Elba's personal history. The lasting legacy of their union is their daughter, Isan Elba, who has since become a rising star in her own right, often appearing alongside her famous father on red carpets and at industry events. This article delves into the life and career of Hanne Nørgaard, uncovering details about her professional achievements and her life after the divorce from the Golden Globe-winning actor.

Hanne 'Kim' Nørgaard: A Complete Biographical Profile

Hanne 'Kim' Nørgaard, often referred to by her married name Kim Elba by some sources, is a figure who has successfully navigated life both in and out of the celebrity spotlight. Her professional expertise lies in the competitive world of beauty and styling, a career she began long before her marriage to the future Hollywood icon.

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• Full Name: Hanne Kim Nørgaard (sometimes stylized as Hanne Nørgaard or Kim Elba)
• Date of Birth: April 5, 1977
• Age: 48 (as of December 2025)
• Place of Birth: United Kingdom
• Nationality: British-American
• Profession: Professional Makeup Artist, Hairstylist, Beauty Entrepreneur, and Stylist
• First Marriage: Idris Elba (m. 1999; div. 2003)
• Current Spouse: Pastor Andrew L. Friar II
• Child: Isan Elba (born 2002)
• Known For: Being the first wife of actor Idris Elba and the mother of Isan Elba.
• Career Highlights: Work in the beauty industry for various high-profile projects, and founding her own beauty brands.

Nørgaard's background is rooted in the United Kingdom, where she honed her skills as a makeup artist. Her move to the United States coincided with the early stages of Idris Elba's career, a time when both were working tirelessly to establish themselves in the entertainment industry.

The Foundational Marriage: 1999–2003 and The Birth of Isan Elba

Idris Elba and Hanne Nørgaard's relationship began in the late 1990s, a period when Elba was still a rising actor, years before his breakout role as Stringer Bell in the critically acclaimed series *The Wire*. They tied the knot in 1999, marking the first marriage for both individuals.

Their union was a significant step as they were both embarking on their respective careers. Hanne Nørgaard was actively working as a stylist and makeup artist, contributing to various projects while supporting her husband's acting ambitions. The marriage was relatively short-lived, however, concluding in divorce in 2003.

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Despite the end of their marital relationship, the most enduring and important outcome of their time together is their daughter, Isan Elba. Born in 2002, Isan is the couple's only child. Her birth cemented a lifelong bond between Nørgaard and Elba, ensuring they would remain connected as co-parents.

Sources indicate that the former couple has maintained an amicable relationship over the years, prioritizing the well-being and upbringing of their daughter. This mature co-parenting dynamic is a testament to their mutual respect, a positive contrast to many celebrity divorce stories.

Hanne Nørgaard’s Life Today: Career, Family, and Independence

Following her divorce from Idris Elba, Hanne Nørgaard intentionally stepped away from the intense media scrutiny that often follows a high-profile separation. She focused her energy on her professional career and personal growth, successfully building a reputation as a respected figure in the beauty industry.

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A Thriving Career as a Beauty Entrepreneur

Nørgaard is far more than just "Idris Elba’s first wife." She is a professional makeup artist and beauty pioneer with a strong portfolio. She has worked on numerous projects, showcasing her expertise in both makeup and hairstyling. Her career trajectory demonstrates a clear commitment to her craft and a desire for professional recognition based on her own talent, not her famous ex-husband's name.

She has also ventured into entrepreneurship, founding her own beauty-focused brands and business initiatives. This move solidified her status as a serious businessperson in the competitive beauty landscape. Entities like beauty products, styling techniques, and professional artistry are central to her brand identity.

A New Chapter: Marriage to Pastor Andrew L. Friar II

In a significant personal development, Hanne Nørgaard remarried, finding happiness with Pastor Andrew L. Friar II. This second marriage marks a new, stable chapter in her life, away from the glitz of Hollywood and focused on her spiritual and family life.

Her current husband, Pastor Friar, is a religious leader, and their life together reflects a different path than the one she shared with the *Luther* and *Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom* star. This relationship highlights her successful transition to a life of privacy and fulfillment outside of the entertainment gossip cycle.

The Bond with Daughter Isan Elba

The relationship between Hanne Nørgaard and her daughter, Isan Elba, is a central part of her identity. Isan, who has gained recognition for her own burgeoning career and her role as a Golden Globe Ambassador, is often seen as a perfect blend of her parents' personalities. Nørgaard has been a constant, supportive presence in Isan’s life, guiding her as she navigates her own path in the public eye.

The co-parenting relationship with Idris Elba remains cordial, ensuring that Isan has a strong, unified family support system. This mature approach to their post-marital life is a key entity in the narrative of their family history, setting a positive example for other celebrities and ex-partners.

In conclusion, Hanne 'Kim' Nørgaard's story is one of quiet resilience and professional achievement. While her early life was intertwined with the rise of a global acting phenomenon, she has successfully carved out an independent, fulfilling life. From her foundational role as Idris Elba's first wife and the mother of Isan Elba to her current success as a beauty entrepreneur and the wife of Pastor Andrew L. Friar II, Nørgaard has proven that her identity extends far beyond her famous ex-husband's shadow. Her focus on her career, her family, and her privacy makes her a uniquely compelling figure in the celebrity periphery.