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Anne De Zogheb: The Stylish Star Behind Paul Anka’s Music

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Anne De Zogheb was not just a beautiful model. She was a strong, stylish, and graceful woman. Many people know her as the first wife of famous singer Paul Anka — but there’s much more to her story.

She lived a quiet and elegant life. Anne was a top model in the 1950s and 60s. She worked with famous fashion brands, met stars, and later became a caring mother of five daughters.

In this article, we’ll explore her whole journey. From her early life and modeling days to her marriage, children, and the mystery of her passing — we’ll learn about everything that made Anne De Zogheb such an inspiring woman.

Table of Contents

Who Is Anne De Zogheb?

Anne De Zogheb was a famous fashion model, an art collector, and the first wife of singer Paul Anka. She was known for her classic beauty, calm personality, and elegant lifestyle.

She started her modeling career in Paris and became a top model in New York during the 1950s and 60s. Later, she stepped away from fame to raise her five daughters.

Anne lived a graceful life. Even after her divorce, she stayed private and focused on her family and art. Many people remember her as a quiet star who touched lives with her strength and style.

Anne De Zogheb’s Early Life and Family

Anne was born on October 2, 1942, in Alexandria, Egypt. Her father, Charles De Zogheb, worked as a diplomat for Lebanon. Her mother was English. She also had a twin sister, but her name is not publicly known.

When Anne was still a young girl, a major event changed her life. In 1952, the Egyptian Revolution happened. So, her family had to leave Egypt. First, they moved to London, and later they settled in Paris, France.

Growing up in different countries gave Anne a mix of cultures and styles. She had the grace of Europe and the warmth of the Middle East. This helped shape the person she would become — classy, elegant, and calm.

Anne De Zogheb’s Education

Anne’s school life was not very easy. When her family moved to London, she was sent to a convent school. It was a very quiet and strict place, mostly run by nuns.

After school, Anne wanted to go to university, but sadly, the family couldn’t afford it. So instead, she was sent to a finishing school, which was common for girls from good families at that time.

Anne did not enjoy it there. In one interview, she said she hated all the rules about manners and behavior. She even called her parents and said, “I can’t stay here.” She left and joined them in Paris, where her real journey began.

Anne’s Starting Her Modeling Career

In Paris, Anne’s life began to change. A magazine called Paris Match saw her and noticed her beauty. That small moment helped launch her modeling career.

Soon after, Eileen Ford, one of the most famous modeling agents in the world, discovered Anne. Eileen liked Anne’s look and offered to take her to New York. Anne said yes.

In 1959, she moved to the United States. This was a big step for her. She was still young, but ready to take on the fashion world with her calm confidence and stylish grace.

Anne De Zogheb’s Big Success in Fashion

Anne quickly became one of the top models of her time. She appeared on the covers of big magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. Her photos were elegant, classy, and full of charm.

She also worked with world-famous designers such as Chanel, Dior, and Balenciaga. These brands trusted Anne to wear their beautiful clothes and show them off with style.

Anne’s modeling career didn’t last forever. But during her time in the fashion world, she became known as a woman of grace, simplicity, and beauty. She stood out without needing to say much.

Anne De Zogheb’s Love Story with Paul Anka

Love Story with Paul Anka

Anne met Paul Anka in 1960 in Puerto Rico. At the time, Paul was filming a movie called The Longest Day, and Anne was on a modeling trip. Their paths crossed, and something clicked.

They started dating soon after. Even though Paul was already a music star, Anne wasn’t focused on fame. She liked Paul for who he was — not just his music. They kept things simple and enjoyed spending time together.

In 1963, they got married in Paris, right at the Orly Airport. It was a sweet and unusual wedding. They didn’t need a big show — they just needed each other. That moment began a journey of nearly 40 years together.

Anne’s Married Life with Paul Anka

After marriage, Anne and Paul moved around a lot. They lived in New York, then Las Vegas, and later settled in Carmel, California. Anne supported Paul through his busy music career.

They had a big family together — five daughters. Paul even wrote a famous song called “(You’re) Having My Baby” to celebrate their love and family. The song was a hit in the 1970s.

But life wasn’t always easy. Paul was traveling a lot — sometimes 200 days a year. This put stress on their marriage. Even though they loved each other, they slowly grew apart.

Anne’s Life as a Loving Mother

After her modeling career, Anne focused fully on being a mother. She and Paul had five daughters, and Anne made sure they were raised with love and care.

Each daughter followed her own path. Some went into creative work, while others chose peaceful, private lives. Anne was proud of all of them and stayed close to them even after her divorce.

She always wanted her daughters to grow up strong and kind. One of her daughters, Anthea, said that Anne taught them to be “curious, vibrant, and brave.” This shows how deeply Anne shaped her family.

Anne De Zogheb’s Life After Divorce

Anne and Paul separated in 1994 and officially divorced in 2000. Even though it was a hard time, they stayed respectful. Paul said it was his decision and that he still loved Anne deeply.

Anne chose not to remarry. She didn’t chase the spotlight or attend big events. Instead, she lived a quiet and calm life, focusing on her children and the things that made her happy.

Many people didn’t see her often after the divorce. But those close to her say she was still the same — elegant, graceful, and peaceful.

Anne’s Love for Art

Anne had a deep love for modern art. After leaving the fashion world, she spent years collecting beautiful and rare pieces.

She started with artists like Sol LeWitt and Robert Rauschenberg. Later, she added large, bold works by Christopher Wool and Albert Oehlen. Her art collection showed her great eye for creativity.

Anne didn’t collect art to show off. She loved art because it made her feel calm and inspired. Her home was filled with meaningful, powerful pieces that reflected her quiet but strong personality.

Anne De Zogheb’s Death

Anne passed away on March 29, 2017, in Hollywood, California. She was 74 years old at the time.

Her cause of death was never shared with the public. This made some fans curious, but the family chose to keep things private — just like Anne would have wanted.

There is no public record of her funeral or where she was buried. She left the world just as she lived — quietly, gracefully, and with dignity.

Final Thoughts

Anne De Zogheb lived a beautiful life. From the fashion world to raising five daughters, she did everything with care and class.

She stayed true to herself — even after fame, divorce, and change. She focused on what mattered most: family, love, and peace.

Anne may no longer be here, but her story, her art, and her family keep her memory alive. She truly was the stylish star behind Paul Anka’s music — and so much more.