Who Is Marianne Ihlen? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on May 18, 1935, Marianne Ihlen was 90 years old in 2025. While she is no longer with us, her legacy as Cohen's muse remains eternal. Marianne's story is beautifully captured in various interviews and documentaries, where she is depicted as an enchanting and free-spirited woman who inspired some of Cohen’s most memorable lyrics. Her relationship with the artist blossomed in the 1960s on the island of Hydra, Greece, where they shared a profound connection that influenced much of Cohen's work.
| Occupation | Other |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 18, 1935 |
| Age | 81 Years |
| Birth Place | Larkollen, Østfold, Norway |
| Horoscope | Taurus |
| Country | Norway |
| Date of death | 28 July, 2016 |
| Died Place | Diakonhjemmet, Oslo, Norway |
Popularity
Marianne Ihlen's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While precise measurements can vary over time, Marianne was known for her striking presence. Sitting at an approximate height of 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm) and maintaining a slender build, she exuded grace and elegance. Her timeless beauty and artistic aura played a significant role in her inspiration to many artists, including Cohen.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Marianne Ihlen had an enduring relationship with Leonard Cohen that lasted over several years. Known as his muse, their romance was characterized by deep affection and artistic collaboration. Throughout her life, she had other relationships, but Cohen remained the most significant connection. As of 2025, she has left behind her son, Axel Ihlen, who shares her legacy and memory.
Marianne Christine Stang Ihlen (18 May 1935 – 28 July 2016) was a Norwegian woman who was the first wife of author Axel Jensen and later the muse and girlfriend of Leonard Cohen for several years in the 1960s. She was the subject of Cohen's 1967 song "So Long, Marianne".
Net Worth and Salary
While precise figures regarding Marianne's net worth are harder to determine, her association with Leonard Cohen undoubtedly contributed to her influence in the art community. After Cohen's passing in 2016, various memorabilia and tributes related to their relationship have emerged, which may have added to the value of her estate. However, specific financial details about her earnings remain private.
The Karmann Ghia had survived Amlin's crash practically undamaged. It had been registered in Ihlen's name, but there was a need for it to be returned to Norway in order to avoid having to pay import duties, which Ihlen would struggle to pay. She was reluctant to make the long journey with her son.
As Cohen's money was running out and he needed to return to Canada to make some more, he offered to accompany her, before continuing across the Atlantic. Plans changed when by chance Ihlen came across some SAS Norwegian aircrew while they were relaxing in Hydra.
Believing them to be trustworthy, she impulsively asked if they would take her six-month son back to his grandmother in Oslo, rather than him having to endure a long drive across Europe. They agreed and a few days later in August Ihlen and Cohen delivered the baby to the aircrew at Athens airport.
Career, Business, and Investments
Marianne's career was primarily influenced by her artistic connections rather than monetary pursuits. She worked as a model and was involved in various artistic circles. Outside of her relationship with Cohen, Marianne was known to have engaged in different art projects and collaborations, emphasizing her creative spirit and love for the arts.
Ihlen signed her legal separation papers in February 1961, though her divorce would not be finalised for another year. To support herself she took a job as a production assistant and substitute script girl on the film Tonny released in 1962.
Cohen eventually scraped together sufficient funds and sent Ihlen a telegram in the autumn of 1961: "Have house. All I need is my woman and her son. Love Leonard."
Social Network
Marianne Ihlen was a part of the artistic bohemia of the 1960s, interacting with various artists, writers, and musicians. Socially, she was connected to influential figures, carrying a lasting impact in their narratives. Today, she can still be recognized through social media pages, fan groups, and forums dedicated to Leonard Cohen, where her life and contributions are celebrated.
While Ihlen had been in Norway, Leonard Cohen had moved to Hydra, renting a house for US$14 a month. While he had noticed her following her return, they had never been introduced. Ihlen described their meeting in Katsikas' store in early 1960: "I was standing in a shop with my basket waiting to pick up bottled water and milk.
And I was crying in front of a Greek lady. Then, there he was (Cohen) standing in the door way with the sun behind him, and you don’t see the face, just the contours, and so I hear his voice saying 'would you like to join us? Come into the sun. We're sitting outside'. He was wearing a beautiful little sixpence (sikspens) cap.
When my eyes met his, I felt it throughout my body."
Education
Details about Marianne’s formal education are limited. However, her life experiences and interactions with various artists of her time served as informal education, allowing her to absorb rich cultural knowledge that influenced her perspective and relationship with the arts.
In summary, Marianne Ihlen remains a significant figure in art and music history, continuing to inspire people with her legacy. Though she is no longer physically present, her relationship with Leonard Cohen and her artistic spirit live on.
