Elizabeth Hurley

Biography

Elizabeth Jane Hurley, born on June 10, 1965, is a prominent English model and actress. She first captured public attention in the 1990s as the girlfriend of actor Hugh Grant, particularly when she attended the Los Angeles premiere of Grant's film Four Weddings and a Funeral in a striking black Versace gown adorned with gold safety pins, a moment that instantly made headlines.

Hurley's career received a significant boost through her long-standing collaboration with Estée Lauder, the cosmetics brand that offered her a modeling opportunity at the age of 29. Since 1995, she has prominently featured in their advertising campaigns, particularly for fragrances like Sensuous, Intuition, and Pleasures. Her most memorable film roles include portraying Vanessa Kensington in the hit Austin Powers franchise, with the first installment released in 1997.

Born in Basingstoke, Hampshire, England, Hurley is the middle child of Angela, a teacher, and Roy Hurley, a Major in the British Army. She has one sister, Kate, and one brother, Michael. Hurley met Hugh Grant while working on the 1987 Spanish film Remando Al Viento. The couple weathered both fame and controversy, including Grant’s 1995 scandal, but parted ways amicably in May 2000 after 13 years together.

In 2002, she welcomed her son, Damian Charles Hurley, whose paternity was confirmed via DNA testing with Steve Bing. Hurley later married Indian textile heir Arun Nayar on March 2, 2007, celebrating their union with ceremonies in both England and India. Today, she also designs and models her own beachwear line.