Billionaire Divorces Wife over Her 'Dementia' to Live with Woman 20 Years Younger

Despite the high society world they inhabited, Claudia and Wolfgang Porsche were not immune to the realities of life. The wealthy couple's once-perfect world unraveled as Claudia's illness progressed.

Claudia Porsche, 74, started to show signs of mental decline. Her husband, who had built a reputation as a successful Porsche executive, was suddenly faced with a challenge that even his wealth and power could not fix.

The news of their separation has left many people shocked and saddened. The image of the couple that once epitomized the glitz and glamour of a life of luxury has now been replaced by one of heartbreak and despair.

They Were the Couple Who Had It All

From their nuptials undertaken in a lavish ceremony at a historic palace and surrounded by all the trappings of wealth — luxurious villas, expensive cars, and majestic yachts, Claudia and Wolfgang, 79, seemed to have it all.

The couple also had two beautiful children, and their future looked bright and promising. But life can be unpredictable, and fate had a cruel twist in store for them.

Wolfgang's choice has led to widespread criticism, with people questioning his actions and his failure to uphold his promise to be there for his spouse in sickness and health.

The News That Shook Their Marriage

People were shocked when Claudia, a well-known German lobbyist, former prosecutor, politician, and professor, was diagnosed with a "dementia-like illness."

It also shook the very foundations of her relationship. Despite their wealth and privilege, the couple could sadly not save their marriage from crumbling under the weight of this debilitating illness.

Filing for Divorce

It is difficult to fathom the pain and suffering that Claudia, a beloved grandmother, is going through due to her illness. Her mental awareness had rapidly declined, and she has been unable to move independently for months, even with the help of four carers.

While caring for a partner with a debilitating illness can be challenging, the decision to divorce them is still heartbreaking.

On March 22, 2023, the billionaire officially filed to separate from his ailing wife. According to reports, Wolfgang has reportedly started a new chapter by moving in with former model Gabriele Prinzessin zu Leiningen, 59.

The Billionaire Found Love with Someone Else

The billionaire's decision to leave his wife of 16 years after she was diagnosed with dementia came after he found love with Gabriele.

Their relationship has raised eyebrows, and their age gap also stunned many. Gabriele is approaching her 60th birthday on April 1, while Wolfgang will turn 80 on May 10.

The two are believed to have shared a friendship for decades and grew closer after Claudia's diagnosis two years ago.

The Couple Moved in Together

The couple apparently enjoyed a romantic getaway in the Maldives in January and now were ready to enter the next chapter in their love story.

According to insiders, Gabriele and Wolfgang's desire to be together and avoid any separation is what led to their decision to move in together.

The exact location of their new home remains undisclosed, leaving many to wonder if they have chosen to reside in Wolfgang's Zell am See home in Austria or the princess's Munich villa.

The Online Reaction

Wolfgang, known for his wealth and success, with assets estimated at approximately $22 billion, has been powerless to help his beloved wife after her illness altered her behavior, so he decided to live separately.

His choice has led to widespread criticism, with people questioning his actions and his failure to uphold his promise to be there for his spouse in sickness and health:

"It's a very personal choice to make! But surely marriage says in sickness and in health? Some would choose not to go through the pain of a dementia journey! What does that say about your love for that person, though, when you abandon them at their time of greatest need of your love."

- (Steve Hunt) March 22, 2023

"At 79, he must think he is going to live forever! I understand living with someone with dementia can be traumatic and difficult, and perhaps at 79, he wants to be happy and enjoy the rest of his years - But divorce? This is very unkind and heartless!"

- (Marion Walsh OHalloran) March 22, 2023

"[He was] happy to be her husband when things were going well but NOT when he had to put some effort in. How very cruel!"

- (Kath M K Little) March 22, 2023

"Good for him on deciding what's right for him .... Perhaps the relationship was near ending beforehand. A divorce does not mean he will not support her or love her. It means he does not want to be married to her. Perhaps he has given all he has to give ..."

- (Chi Kas) March 22, 2023

The couple's story serves as a reminder that illness and tragedy can strike anyone, no matter how successful or wealthy they may be. It also displays life's fragility and the need to cherish every moment with our loved ones.

Click here to read about Demi Moore and Bruce Willis' relationship 23 years after they finalized their divorce. The actress has supported her former spouse during his battle with dementia.