In the glittering world of Hollywood, where stars and their legacies illuminate the sky, some stories unfold quietly behind the scenes, rich with depth, resilience, and beauty. One such story belongs to Hanne Norgaard, the first wife of acclaimed actor Idris Elba. But to define her solely by that relationship would be a disservice to the dynamic woman she truly is. A skilled makeup artist, successful entrepreneur, and passionate mental health advocate, Hanne has carved out her own path in the world, one that reflects courage, compassion, and creativity.
While her connection to a global celebrity introduced her to the public eye, Hanne Norgaard’s journey is far more expansive. It’s a story rooted in multicultural heritage, personal transformation, and a steadfast commitment to empowering others. Let’s explore the untold story of Hanne Norgaard and the life she has built beyond the spotlight.
Quick Bio
Details | Information |
Full Name | Hanne Kim Norgaard |
Date of Birth | April 5, 1977 |
Age (as of 2025) | 48 years old |
Place of Birth | United Kingdom |
Nationality | British-American |
Ethnicity | African-American & South Korean (Blasian) |
Height | 5 feet 2 inches (157 cm) |
Weight | 61 kg (134 lbs) |
Hair Color | Brown |
Eye Color | Brown |
Education | International Artist Makeup Academy (London), SC Institute (Washington, DC) |
Occupation | Makeup Artist, Entrepreneur, Advocate |
Marital Status | Married to Pastor Andrew L. Friar II |
Early Life and Heritage
Hanne Norgaard was born in the United Kingdom on April 5, 1977, into a richly multicultural household. Her father is African-American, and her mother is of South Korean descent a unique blend that shaped her worldview and personal values from an early age. Growing up in a household that embraced both Eastern and Western cultures, Hanne learned to appreciate diversity in all its forms, particularly in beauty and self-expression.
This foundation influenced her interest in the arts, especially makeup. She quickly recognized how the beauty industry often overlooked women of color and vowed to be part of the change. From a young age, she envisioned a world where every person could feel seen, beautiful, and celebrated.

Passion for Beauty and Education
Hanne’s early curiosity in cosmetics evolved into a full-blown passion. Determined to make it her career, she enrolled at the International Artist Makeup Academy in London, where she mastered the essentials of makeup artistry, including special effects, skincare, and styling. To broaden her expertise, she later studied at the SC Institute in Washington, DC, further solidifying her credentials in the beauty industry.
Her educational background not only sharpened her technical skills but also empowered her with the confidence to launch a professional career in a highly competitive field. Hanne Norgaard was never just chasing glamour she was building a purpose-driven future.
Career Breakthroughs and Celebrity Work
After completing her training, Hanne Norgaard stepped into the beauty world with confidence and grace. She began working with major television and film productions, including the BBC and Columbia TriStar, where her talent quickly drew recognition. Hanne’s attention to detail and ability to enhance natural beauty soon caught the eyes of fashion icons, leading to collaborations with Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein.
Her clientele eventually included well-known celebrities such as Robin Williams, Shaquille O’Neal, and, of course, her future husband Idris Elba. Although her association with Idris brought her into the limelight, her work spoke for itself. Hanne established a reputation as a versatile and skilled artist who could bring out the best in anyone.
Entrepreneurship: Building Her Own Brand
With her career flourishing, Hanne Norgaard took the next step by founding Make Up Your Mind Inc., a makeup services and consulting company. Through this business, she provided one-on-one consultations, makeup classes, and customized beauty solutions. Her work extended to special events, bridal styling, and fashion editorials.
Later, she launched Kim Elba Cosmetics, a brand that reflects her values of inclusivity and clean beauty. The line offers cruelty-free and paraben-free products tailored for all skin tones a direct response to the lack of diversity in mainstream cosmetics. Her entrepreneurial ventures stand as a testament to her creativity and commitment to representation.
Advocacy for Diversity and Representation
Throughout her career, Hanne Norgaard has used her platform to promote inclusivity in beauty. As a woman of Blasian descent, she understood how it felt to be underrepresented. This awareness became the driving force behind her mission to challenge outdated standards and redefine what beauty means.
Her efforts have inspired many women of color to pursue careers in fashion, media, and beauty, unafraid to claim their space and showcase their heritage. Hanne doesn’t just celebrate diversity she actively cultivates it.
Love, Marriage, and Family Life
Hanne met Idris Elba in London during the early stages of their careers. Their relationship blossomed, and they married in 1999. Shortly after, they relocated to New York, where they welcomed their daughter, Isan Elba, in 2002.
Although their marriage ended in 2003, Hanne and Idris maintained a respectful co-parenting relationship centered around their daughter. Both parents played active roles in raising Isan, who would later follow in her mother’s footsteps as an advocate for mental health awareness.

Who Is Idris Elba?
To understand part of Hanne Norgaard’s life journey, it helps to know a bit about Idris Elba. He is a British actor, producer, and musician, known for his commanding roles in The Wire, Luther, and blockbuster films like Thor, Pacific Rim, and Beasts of No Nation. His dynamic talent and global appeal have made him one of the most respected actors of his generation.
Despite their divorce, Idris has spoken positively about Hanne and their shared parenting journey, often highlighting the impact she’s had on their daughter’s upbringing.

Isan Elba: Following in Her Mother’s Footsteps
Born in 2002, Isan Elba is more than just the daughter of a Hollywood star she is an advocate in her own right. In 2019, she was named the Golden Globe Ambassador, a role she used to raise awareness about mental health issues.
Inspired by her mother’s openness about her personal battles with anxiety and bipolar depression, Isan champions emotional well-being, especially among youth. The bond between mother and daughter is rooted in mutual respect, understanding, and a shared desire to break the silence surrounding mental illness.
A New Chapter: Marriage to Pastor Andrew L. Friar II
In 2013, Hanne began a new chapter in her life when she married Pastor Andrew L. Friar II. The couple lives in Georgia, where they are actively involved in their church community. As the First Lady of their ministry, Hanne supports spiritual wellness and community outreach through the Heart Strong Ministry.
This chapter of her life is marked by peace, faith, and purpose. Her marriage to Pastor Friar complements her values of service, empathy, and authenticity.
Mental Health Advocacy and Openness
Perhaps one of the most inspiring aspects of Hanne Norgaard’s story is her commitment to mental health advocacy. By openly discussing her own experiences with anxiety and bipolar depression, she has helped de-stigmatize conversations around emotional wellness.
Her courage has encouraged many especially in communities of color to seek help, speak openly, and embrace vulnerability as strength. For Hanne, beauty and wellness go hand in hand, and true transformation begins within.
Financial Growth and Net Worth
Through decades of hard work, brand-building, and meaningful contributions to her field, Hanne Norgaard has achieved financial independence. Her net worth is estimated at around $900,000, a reflection of her sustained success in the beauty industry and her business ventures.
While this figure may not match that of A-list celebrities, it represents a life built on skill, integrity, and consistent effort.
Legacy and Lasting Impact
Hanne Norgaard has created a legacy that transcends her relationship with a famous actor. She is a mentor, a businesswoman, a mother, and an advocate. Her work in the beauty industry has helped push forward conversations about inclusivity. Her honesty about mental health has given others permission to heal.
More than anything, Hanne is a reminder that resilience and purpose can light the way, even when the world only sees part of your story.
Conclusion
Hanne Norgaard’s life proves that behind every well-known name lies a deeper, richer story. She is more than Idris Elba’s former wife she is a creative force, a courageous woman, and a compassionate leader. Through her artistry, her businesses, and her voice, she continues to uplift others and shine in her own powerful light. In a world eager to label and define, Hanne Norgaard writes her own narrative one of grace, purpose, and unwavering strength.
FAQs
1. Who is Hanne Norgaard?
- Hanne Norgaard is a professional makeup artist, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate, best known as the first wife of actor Idris Elba.
2. What is Hanne Norgaard’s background?
- She is of African-American and South Korean descent, often described as Blasian.
3. What businesses does she own?
- She owns Make Up Your Mind Inc. and founded the Kim Elba Cosmetics line.
4. When did she marry Idris Elba?
- She married Idris Elba in 1999 and divorced in 2003.
5. Who is Hanne Norgaard married to now?
She is married to Pastor Andrew L. Friar II since 2013.