Who Is Hope Cooke? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Hope Cooke was born on June 24, 1940, in New York, USA. She rose to prominence as the Queen of Sikkim from 1963 until the state’s integration into India in 1975. Cooke's unique blend of American culture and royal duties captured the world's attention, making her a fascinating figure in the history of Sikkim. In 2025, Hope Cooke turns 85 years old, continuing to be an iconic personality known for her grace and dedication.
| Occupation | Autobiographer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 24, 1940 |
| Age | 84 Years |
| Birth Place | San Francisco, California, US |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Hope Cooke's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
At this stage in her life, Hope Cooke maintains a dignified presence. Although specific details about her current height and weight are not widely publicized, she has always been admired for her elegant stature. Throughout her royal tenure, she was known to embody grace and poise, traits that continue to resonate with her public image.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Hope Cooke was previously married to Palden Thondup Namgyal, the last Chogyal (king) of Sikkim, with whom she shared two children, including a son and a daughter. Following her royal duties and eventual separation from the monarchy, Hope has maintained a private life. As of 2025, there is little information regarding her current relationship status, but she is often seen with her family, cherishing her time with her grandchildren.
In 1975 Namgyal was deposed and Sikkim merged into India as a result of internal turmoil, Indian military intervention and a referendum. Five months later, Cooke returned to the United States with her two children and stepdaughter to enroll them in schools in New York City. Cooke and her husband divorced in 1980. Namgyal died of cancer in New York City in 1982.
Net Worth and Salary
While exact figures regarding Hope Cooke's net worth in 2025 are not publicly disclosed, it is recognized that her royal associations and later endeavors have contributed to her financial standing. Her time as the Queen of Sikkim, along with her investments and engagements in charitable endeavors, have helped her maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Career, Business and Investments
Beyond her duties as queen, Hope Cooke is known for her philanthropic work and interest in various business ventures. She has been engaged in initiatives focusing on education and women's rights, making significant contributions to society through her advocacy. Additionally, her investments over the years have diversified her portfolio, supporting both personal and charitable projects.
Cooke wrote an autobiography, Time Change (Simon & Schuster 1981) and began a career as a lecturer, book critic, and magazine contributor, later becoming an urban historian.
In her new life as a student of New York City, Cooke published Seeing New York (Temple University Press 1995); worked as a newspaper columnist (Daily News); and taught at Yale University, Sarah Lawrence College, and Birch Wathen, a New York City private school.
Social Network
In today's digital age, Hope Cooke remains somewhat of a mystery. While she doesn't frequently engage with social media, she has been an inspiring figure in various forums and discussion groups related to history and culture, uplifting Sikkim's legacy. Fans often celebrate her life stories on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, where affectionate tributes reflect her lasting impact on the community.
Education
Hope Cooke received her education at various prestigious institutions, which equipped her with the knowledge and skills to handle her royal obligations. Her time spent studying has played a crucial role in shaping her views on global perspectives and cultural appreciation.
In conclusion, Hope Cooke continues to be an influential figure whose life story resonates with many. As she marks her 85th year in 2025, the world remembers her not just as the Queen of Sikkim but as a trailblazer who has navigated the challenges of royal duties with grace and purpose.
In 1959, Cooke was a freshman majoring in Asian Studies at Sarah Lawrence College and sharing an apartment with actress Jane Alexander. She went on a summer trip to India and met Palden Thondup Namgyal, Crown Prince of Sikkim, in the lounge of the Windamere Hotel in Darjeeling, India.
He was a 36 year-old recent widower with two sons and a daughter. They were drawn to each other by the similar isolation of their childhoods. Two years later, in 1961, their engagement was announced, but the wedding was put off for more than a year because astrologers in both Sikkim and India warned that 1962 was an inauspicious year for marriages.
