Updated: November 17, 2025
Hey there, fellow fans of Aussie icons! If you’re like me, Paul Hogan’s cheeky grin and that unforgettable “That’s not a knife” line from Crocodile Dundee still brings a smile to your face. But behind the laughter and the outback adventures was a real-life love story that’s equal parts rom-com and drama. Today, we’re diving into the life of Paul Hogan first wife, Noelene Edwards – the woman who stood by his side through humble beginnings and Hollywood highs. From a chance poolside meeting to a family that grew amid the spotlight, their tale is one of enduring love, tough choices, and quiet resilience. Stick around as we unpack it all, because Noelene’s story deserves its moment in the sun.
Table of Contents
A Chance Meeting at the Sydney Pool: Sparks Fly in 1958
Picture this: It’s the late 1950s in sunny Sydney, Australia. Paul Hogan, a strapping young rigger by day, moonlights as a lifeguard at a local swimming pool to make ends meet. Enter Noelene Edwards, a vibrant local with a laugh that could light up the water. One fateful day, their eyes meet across the chlorine-scented air, and just like that, romance blooms.
They tied the knot later that year in a simple ceremony, full of youthful dreams and zero clue about the fame awaiting Paul. Noelene, born in the Northern Beaches of Sydney, was the steady force Paul needed – supportive, grounded, and ready for whatever life threw their way. At just 18, she became his partner in every sense, cheering him on as he ditched the hard hat for comedy sketches on TV. Their early years were pure magic: road trips, barbecues, and building a life from scratch. It’s the kind of meet-cute that makes you believe in love at first splash.
Building a Family: Five Kids and Paul’s Meteoric Rise
As Paul’s star ascended with The Paul Hogan Show in the 1970s, Noelene was the unsung hero holding down the fort. They welcomed five children into their bustling home – Lauren, Brett, Scott, Todd, and Loretta – each one a testament to their shared joy and chaos. Life wasn’t all glamour; Paul’s grueling schedule meant long nights away, but Noelene kept the family humming with school runs, homemade dinners, and endless encouragement.
Here’s a quick glimpse into their family milestones:
- 1958: Wedding bells ring – the start of their adventure.
- 1960s-70s: Kids arrive amid Paul’s TV breakthrough; Noelene juggles motherhood and supporting his budding career.
- 1980: Paul lands Crocodile Dundee, catapulting them into global fame – but at what cost to their private world?
Through it all, Noelene’s quiet strength shone. She wasn’t chasing headlines; she was chasing happiness for her crew. Friends say she was the glue, turning their Sydney home into a haven of laughter, even as paparazzi started lurking.
The Rollercoaster Ride: Divorce, Remarriage, and Heartache
Ah, the plot twist no one saw coming. By 1981, the pressures of Paul’s whirlwind career cracked their foundation. They divorced that year, a gut-wrenching decision after 23 years. But love’s a stubborn thing – they reconciled and remarried in 1982, vowing to make it work. For eight more years, they navigated the highs of Crocodile Dundee‘s success and the lows of constant scrutiny.
Sadly, it wasn’t meant to last. By 1989, they parted ways for good, just as Paul fell for co-star Linda Kozlowski on set. The split was messy – tabloids called it Australia’s ugliest celebrity divorce – but Noelene handled it with grace, focusing on co-parenting their kids. Paul later admitted in interviews he’s “not a great husband,” owning the regrets. Through the pain, Noelene emerged stronger, proving that sometimes, letting go is the ultimate act of love.
To give you a clear snapshot of Paul’s marital journey, here’s a simple table breaking it down:
| Marriage | Spouse | Duration | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Noelene Edwards | 1958–1981 | Met at pool; 5 children born |
| Remarriage | Noelene Edwards | 1982–1989 | Reconciliation amid career peak |
| 2nd | Linda Kozlowski | 1990–2014 | Crocodile Dundee co-star; 1 son |
Noelene Today: A Life of Peace and Privacy at 85
Fast-forward to 2025, and Noelene Edwards – now 85 and going by Noelene Edwards Facey – has carved out a serene life far from the flashbulbs. She’s embraced privacy, sharing glimpses of her travels on Instagram (@noelenejoy), from Italian coastal towns to quiet Aussie escapes. No more red carpets for her; instead, it’s about family, gardening, and the simple joys she always cherished.
Recent chats with those close to her reveal a woman at peace:
- She’s close with her grandkids, hosting beach barbecues that echo her early days with Paul.
- Health-wise, she’s thriving, crediting yoga and ocean swims for her vitality.
- In a rare 2016 interview, she reflected on the betrayal but chose forgiveness, saying, “Life’s too short for grudges.”
Noelene’s choice to fade from fame? It’s inspiring. At an age when many slow down, she’s wandering Europe’s cobblestone streets, proving reinvention has no expiration date.
Wrapping Up: Lessons from a Crocodile-Sized Heart
Paul Hogan’s first wife, Noelene Edwards, isn’t just a footnote in his blockbuster bio – she’s the heartbeat of his early triumphs. Their story reminds us that even icons have messy, human loves: the poolside sparks, the family frenzy, the painful goodbyes, and the graceful comebacks. In a world obsessed with the spotlight, Noelene teaches us the beauty of stepping back to truly shine.
Whether you’re a die-hard Dundee fan or just curious about real-life romances, Noelene’s journey hits home. What’s your take on second chances in love? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear! Until next time, keep it real, mates.