Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, named as the world's richest woman, has shunned the limelight in favour of playing her beloved grand pianos and reading Greek mythology.
In a world where opulence often defines success, Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, the reclusive heiress of L'Oreal, stands as a testament to a different path. For the fourth consecutive year, she has been crowned the wealthiest woman globally, with her fortune now estimated at a staggering $99.5 billion.
While her wealth is vast, Bettencourt Meyers' lifestyle couldn't be further from the glitz and glamour associated with high finance. Preferring the quiet pursuit of her passions, she spends her days engrossed in playing her beloved grand piano and delving into the depths of Greek mythology.
The 70-year-old inheritor of the L'Oreal empire has seen her fortune soar, largely due to her 35% stake in the French beauty giant, which she co-owns with her husband, Jean-Pierre Meyers, and their two sons. However, her rise to the top has not been without controversy, as her family's legacy has been marred by allegations of collaboration with the Nazis during World War II.
Despite her immense wealth, Bettencourt Meyers opts for a modest lifestyle, residing in an elegant apartment in the affluent Parisian suburb of Neuilly-sur-Seine. Her passion for music, instilled since childhood, sees her spending hours at her two grand pianos, a Steinway and a Yamaha. Yet, her interests extend beyond music, as she is also a respected bible scholar and author.
Beyond her personal pursuits, Bettencourt Meyers is deeply involved in charitable endeavours, presiding over her family's philanthropic foundation, which supports various initiatives in France, including the restoration of the Notre Dame cathedral.
However, her family's wealth has not been without its share of scandals. A sensational trial in the late 2000s exposed attempts by a celebrity photographer to manipulate Bettencourt Meyers' ailing mother into accessing her fortune, leading to public rifts within the family.
Despite these challenges, Bettencourt Meyers remains steadfast in her commitment to her passions and philanthropy, embodying a unique blend of wealth, humility, and dedication to her pursuits beyond the trappings of fortune.
(Source: Daily Mail UK)
