Jean-Claude Van Damme, a skilled martial artist, and a beloved Hollywood action star, has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. He is famous for his roles in exciting films like "Kickboxer" and "Double Impact," where his incredible fighting abilities and charismatic presence captivated audiences.
With a net worth of $40 million, Van Damme's success in the movie industry has brought him well-deserved recognition and financial reward. Notably, he shares his life with his wife, Gladys Portugues, forming a strong partnership that adds to his personal story of triumph and resilience.
Married To Gladys Portugues
On a memorable day, June 25, 1999, Jean-Claude Van Damme took a significant step in his life by marrying Gladys Portugues. The picturesque setting for their wedding was in North Belgium, where the couple exchanged their vows surrounded by the stunning beauty of nature. The joyous occasion was witnessed by several hundred guests, a testament to the couple's widespread popularity and the warmth of their relationship.
Jean-Claude Van Damme with his wife, Gladys Portugues SOURCE: Gladys Portugues Instagram @officialgp57Among the esteemed attendees was the legendary Sylvester Stallone, a fellow icon of the action film world. The presence of such a distinguished guest added an extra touch of glamour and excitement to an already special event, making it a day that Van Damme and Portugues would cherish forever.
Portugues, born on September 30, 1957, in Manhattan, New York City, USA, has excelled in bodybuilding, modeling, and writing. With notable achievements in the Ms. Olympia contest, she's proven her strength as a professional bodybuilder. Her modeling career has also showcased her captivating presence. Additionally, she's embraced the role of an author, sharing her insights through her written work. She is a versatile individual who has made a mark in multiple domains, embodying determination and a commitment to self-expression and success.
How Did Van Damme Meet His Wife?
The story of how Van Damme and Portugues came together is quite fascinating. It all began at a lively party hosted by none other than Chuck Norris, a well-known figure in the world of martial arts and movies, as mentioned in an article from Global Happenings. It was at this gathering that fate intervened, bringing the two into each other's lives.
Struck by an instant connection, the charismatic actor, Van Damme was so captivated by Gladys that he confidently declared that she would eventually become his wife. This bold proclamation was a testament to the strong bond they felt from the very beginning. Their journey from that memorable party to eventually becoming a happily married couple is a heartwarming tale of love and destiny intertwined.
Had Married Portuges More Than Once
Van Damme's romantic journey with Gladys Portugues holds more layers than meets the eye. Their marriage in 1999 marked not just a celebration of love, but also a significant chapter in their relationship. Interestingly, this was not the first time they had walked down the aisle together. She was his third wife originally as mentioned in an article from Deseret News.
Jean-Claude Van Damme and Gladys Portugues during their younger days SOURCE: Gladys Portugues Instagram @officialgp57Before their 1999 union, Van Damme and Gladys had already embarked on a marital journey. The year 1987 saw them join hands in matrimony for the first time, only to part ways and subsequently divorce in 1992. During this initial marriage, she was the actor's third wife, highlighting the twists and turns that love can take. Their eventual reunion in 1999 and the decision to give love another chance showcase their enduring connection and the belief in the power of second chances in matters of the heart.
The divorce in 1992 between Van Damme and Portugues' was caused by the cheating scandal. The news of an affair cast a shadow over their marriage. Gladys discovered her husband in the company of other women, a painful discovery that shattered the trust they had built. The shock of the situation led her to take the difficult step of filing for divorce. However, as time went on, the complexities of human emotions and the power of forgiveness began to weave their magic. Years later, destiny would take an unexpected turn, reuniting these two souls.
Almost Divorced Portuges One More Time
Jean-Claude Van Damme and Gladys Portugues' marriage faced another challenging moment in 2015 when the specter of divorce loomed once again. This time, their bond was tested by a painful revelation from the past. In 2009, the actor was entangled in an affair with Alena Kaverina, which resurfaced and reopened old wounds. The news of this second betrayal deeply affected Gladys, leading her to take a decisive step toward separation.
In March 2015, Gladys made the heart-wrenching choice to file for divorce. The future of their relationship seemed uncertain as they navigated this difficult juncture. Yet, in a testament to the complexity of human emotions and the enduring strength of their connection, the two found a way to heal and mend their relationship. They managed to reconcile and ultimately decided against pursuing the divorce, a powerful example of how love and commitment can overcome even the most trying of circumstances.
Who Was Van Damme's Previous Wife?
Before his marriage to Portugues, Jean-Claude Van Damme had embarked on a previous marital journey with Darcy LaPier. Their union marked his fourth marriage, a testament to the complexities of love and relationships. The couple's wedding took place in a vibrant ceremony set against the backdrop of Bangkok, Thailand, on the 3rd of February, 1994.
Despite the initial excitement, their path eventually diverged, and Van Damme and LaPier faced the challenges that sometimes come with marriage. Their journey together concluded in November 1997, when they made the difficult decision to part ways through divorce. However, amidst the complexities of their relationship, a bright spot emerged: their son, Nicolas Van Varenberg, who was born in 1995 and became a cherished connection between them.
About Van Damme's Marriage With Cynthia Derderian
Van Damme's marriage with Cynthia Derderian provides a glimpse into his earlier years as he embarked on his journey in the world of acting. The couple tied the knot on August 24, 1985, marking the beginning of a chapter that would shape the actor's personal and professional life. However, their union was relatively short-lived, as they divorced in 1986.
This period coincided with Van Damme's initial steps into the acting realm, where he would soon become a prominent Hollywood figure. Interestingly, Derderian path crossed with him after he made the move to the United States. It is said that their connection blossomed when he was employed at her father's carpet store. This unexpected encounter not only added a romantic dimension to their lives but also brought together two individuals on the brink of life-changing opportunities.
Who Was The Action Star First Wife?
Jean-Claude Van Damme's initial venture into marriage was with Maria Rodriguez, a significant chapter in his early life. They exchanged vows on the 25th of August, 1980, marking the beginning of a partnership that would eventually take a different course. Their marital journey reached its conclusion with a divorce in 1984.
Van Damme and Rodriguez's first encounter took place in 1978, back in Belgium. It's intriguing to speculate that their paths might have crossed in the realm of martial arts training, given their shared interest as she is also a professional Trainer. Following their marriage, within just a year, they made the significant decision to relocate to the United States. Maria's life seems to be characterized by a desire for privacy and a low-profile existence, which stands in contrast to the more public life that her ex-husband would go on to lead in the world of Hollywood and entertainment.
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