Richard Lugner, the billionaire businessman known for his extravagant lifestyle and controversial antics, passed away at the age of 91. His flamboyant personality and larger-than-life persona made him a polarizing figure in Austrian high society. Despite his success as an entrepreneur, Lugner’s relationships and behavior often overshadowed his business acumen.
Lugner’s career took off in 1990 when he opened Lugner City, the seventh-largest shopping center in Austria. This venture catapulted him into the spotlight and solidified his status as a prominent businessman. However, Lugner’s ambitions did not stop there. He made unsuccessful attempts to run for Austrian president in 1998 and 2016, showcasing his desire for power and recognition.
Throughout his life, Lugner was married six times to women significantly younger than him. His most recent marriage to Simone Reiländer, who was 49 years his junior, attracted media attention due to the vast age gap. Lugner’s relationships were often marred by scandal and public scrutiny, with his marriages ending in divorce.
Despite his success in business, Lugner faced numerous health challenges throughout his life. In 2016, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and underwent radiotherapy to combat the illness. Three years later, Lugner was diagnosed with skin cancer, leading to multiple surgical procedures. These health scares did not deter Lugner from his extravagant lifestyle, as he continued to make public appearances and host lavish events.
Lugner’s most enduring legacy is the annual Vienna Opera Ball, which he hosted since 1992. The star-studded event attracted celebrity guests, many of whom Lugner paid to attend. His willingness to spend exorbitant amounts of money for the company of beautiful women garnered both admiration and criticism. Lugner’s large social circle and connections in high society solidified his status as a prominent figure in Austrian culture.
Richard Lugner’s passing marks the end of an era in Austrian high society. His controversial personality, extravagant lifestyle, and business acumen have left a lasting impact on those who knew him. Despite his flaws and missteps, Lugner will be remembered as a larger-than-life figure who defied societal norms and lived life on his own terms.
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