Who Is Sylvia Kristel? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Sylvia Kristel, born on September 28, 1952, was a renowned Dutch actress and model who captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Known primarily for her role in the controversial film series "Emmanuelle," Kristel became a cultural icon and symbol of sensuality during the 1970s and 80s. As of 2025, she would have been 73 years old. Kristel's captivating performances extended beyond adult films, showcasing her talent in various genres across her expansive career. Her legacy continues to influence modern cinema and pop culture.
| Occupation | Autobiographer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 28, 1952 |
| Age | 60 Years |
| Birth Place | Utrecht, Netherlands |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | Netherlands |
| Date of death | 17 October, 2012 |
| Died Place | The Hague, Netherlands |
Popularity
Sylvia Kristel's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Sylvia Kristel was known for her stunning physique and model-like beauty. In her prime, she stood at approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall and weighed around 125 lbs (57 kg). Her body measurements were often highlighted, typically around 36-24-36 (inches). Kristel's graceful figure and striking features helped her become one of the most recognizable personalities in the entertainment industry.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Throughout her life, Kristel maintained a relatively private personal life, although she has been linked to several high-profile relationships. She was romantically involved with various celebrities, including renowned director Alain Robbe-Grillet and her co-star in "Emmanuelle," Udo Kier. In her later years, she was known to have a significant other, but details about her current boyfriend or partner in 2025 remain obscure. Kristel was also a devoted mother to her son Arthur, whom she cherished immensely.
In her 2006 autobiography, Nue, she stated that she was sexually abused by an elderly hotel guest when she was nine years old, an experience she otherwise refused to discuss. Her parents divorced when she was 14 years old, after her father abandoned the family for another woman. "It was the saddest thing that ever happened to me," she said of the experience of her parents' separation.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of her passing in 2012, Sylvia Kristel had an estimated net worth of approximately $25 million. Her wealth was accumulated not only from her illustrious acting career but also from various modeling contracts and ventures in the entertainment industry. Although specific figures about her current earnings in 2025 may not be available due to her passing, Kristel's influence on film and her brand continue to resonate, ensuring her legacy remains financially significant.
Career, Business, and Investments
Sylvia Kristel's career spanned several decades, featuring over 50 films in a variety of genres. She is best known for her role in the "Emmanuelle" series, which, while controversial, made her a household name and a pioneer in adult cinema. Beyond acting, Kristel explored other ventures including writing and producing, showcasing her multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. While specific investments or business ventures posthumously are not well-documented, Kristel's impact on film continues, with her works being rediscovered by new generations.
In addition to her early tryout for Last Tango, Kristel would often come close to having leading or supporting parts in several other major films over the first two decades of her career. She was cast as Stella in Roman Polanski's The Tenant (1976) but was replaced by Isabelle Adjani after one day of shooting.
In 1977, she was an early choice to star as Hattie in Louis Malle's controversial period drama Pretty Baby (1978), but the role eventually went to Susan Sarandon. Several years later, Malle asked her to play Ingrid in Damage, his 1992 drama of sexual obsession, but Kristel was unavailable at the time and Miranda Richardson was cast.
She was friends with Sergio Leone, who wanted her for the role of Carol while casting Once Upon a Time in America (1984); the producers did not agree and the part went to Tuesday Weld. In 1982, she was turned down by Tony Scott for the role of Miriam in The Hunger (1983); Catherine Deneuve won the part.
She also was considered for the role of Lois Lane in Superman (1978), which went to Margot Kidder; and she unsuccessfully tried to win a role as a Bond Girl in four James Bond movies: The Spy Who Loved Me (1977), Moonraker (1979), For Your Eyes Only (1981) and Octopussy (1983).
Social Network
While Sylvia Kristel passed away in 2012, her legacy continues to thrive on social media and various fan forums. Her official social media presence remains managed by her estate, highlighting her classic films, memorable quotes, and significant contributions to the arts. Fans share content and engage in discussions about her work, keeping her memory alive on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
Kristel also rejected the female leading roles in The Story of Adele H. (1975), King Kong (1976), Logan's Run (1976), Caligula (1979), Body Heat (1981), Blade Runner (1982), Scarface (1983), Dune (1984), Body Double (1984) and Blue Velvet (1986).
In 1992, her friend Gérard Depardieu, wanting to help secure her comeback, unsuccessfully tried to persuade the producers of 1492: Conquest of Paradise to cast her as Queen Isabella I, ultimately played by Sigourney Weaver.
Education
Sylvia Kristel received her early education in the Netherlands, where she nurtured her passion for the arts and performance. She later attended the School of Arts in Amsterdam, which helped hone her skills in acting and modeling. This foundational education played a crucial role in shaping her future career as an actress in both mainstream and adult cinema.
