New Delhi: Richard Lugner, the renowned Austrian billionaire, has passed away at the age of 91. The celebrated socialite and construction magnate had been facing multiple health challenges in recent months, including undergoing heart surgery. He leaves behind four children. According to Austrian media reports, Lugner died on Monday at his villa in Vienna.Lugner was famous for his role as a prominent host at Viennas prestigious Opera Ball, where he frequently welcomed international celebrities. Over the years, his guest list included high-profile names such as Kim Kardashian, Sophia Loren, Jane Fonda, Pamela Anderson and Goldie Hawn. His lavish events were the talk of high society, reflecting his unique blend of glamour and influence.Chancellor pays tribute to late LugnerAustrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer paid tribute to Lugner on social media platform X, calling him a vibrant... Austrian original who remained true to himself throughout his life. Lugner had recently made headlines with his personal life in June, he married for the sixth time, tying the knot with 42-year-old Simone Reilander. At the time, he declared, It will be the last marriage, as reported by PEOPLE.Richard Lugner war ein erfolgreicher Unternehmer und eine schillernde Persönlichkeit. Ein österreichisches Original, das sich nie verbogen hat. Er ruhe in Frieden! pic.twitter.com/tqp6Zau9fJ— Karl Nehammer (@karlnehammer) August 12, 2024Extravagant celebrations and high-profile datesLugners penchant for opulence was evident in his lavish spending on celebrity appearances. In 2014, he reportedly paid $500,000 for Kim Kardashian to attend the Vienna Opera Ball as his date. “Kim is annoying me because shes not sticking to the program,” Lugner had commented. His previous ventures included paying Lindsay Lohan $150,000 to attend the 2010 event. At his latest Opera Ball, Lugner brought Priscilla Presley, the ex-wife of Elvis Presley.Political ambitionsLugner also had a foray into politics. In the late 1990s, he gained attention by securing nearly 10 percent of the vote in the 1998 presidential election. He made a second presidential bid in 2016 but finished in last place, obtaining just over two percent of the vote.Lugner: Viennas business iconRichard Lugner was born in Vienna on October 11, 1932. Lugner made his mark with the development of Lugner City, a prominent shopping center in Vienna. Following his death, the center paid tribute to him, honoring his contributions to both business and high society. Despite controversies, including criticism for some of his comments, Lugner was a significant figure in Viennas social scene.
