From her legendary appearance in “that” Versace safety-pin dress to her current status as a business mogul and social media icon, Elizabeth Hurley remains one of the most captivating figures in British entertainment. Known as much for her razor-sharp wit as her age-defying looks, Hurley has successfully navigated decades of public scrutiny to become a respected actress, producer, and entrepreneur.
As of early 2026, Elizabeth is enjoying a major life milestone, having recently celebrated her 60th birthday while headlining new television projects and dominating headlines with a high-profile new romance.
Elizabeth Hurley Biography
Born Elizabeth Jane Hurley on June 10, 1965, in Basingstoke, Hampshire, Elizabeth grew up in a traditional middle-class household. Her father was an army officer and her mother was a schoolteacher. Despite her classic English upbringing, Hurley was a rebellious teenager, briefly associating with punk subculture and sporting pink hair and nose rings.
Her journey to stardom began when she won a scholarship to the London Studio Centre, where she studied dance and theater. She made her screen debut in the 1987 film Aria, but it was her 1994 appearance at the premiere of Four Weddings and a Funeral that catapulted her into global superstardom overnight.
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Career
Hurley’s career is a masterclass in versatility.
- The Estée Lauder Era: In 1995, with no previous modeling experience, she became the face of Estée Lauder at age 29. She has remained a brand ambassador for over 30 years, particularly for their Breast Cancer Awareness campaigns.
- The Producer: Alongside Hugh Grant, she co-founded Simian Films, producing hits like Mickey Blue Eyes and Extreme Measures.
- Current Success (2025–2026): In late 2025, Elizabeth starred in the hit Channel 4 drama series The Inheritance. She also recently produced and starred in the mystery thriller Strictly Confidential (2024), which was written and directed by her son, Damian Hurley.
Elizabeth Hurley Movies
- Passenger 57 (1992): Her first major Hollywood role as an airline terrorist.
- Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997): Playing the iconic Vanessa Kensington.
- Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999): Reprising her role in the hit sequel.
- Bedazzled (2000): Her memorable turn as a stylish, tempting Devil.
- Serving Sara (2002): A romantic comedy lead opposite Matthew Perry.
- The Royals (2015–2018): Starring as the fictional Queen Helena in this campy cult-classic series.
- Strictly Confidential (2024): Her most recent film project, directed by her son.
Elizabeth Hurley Net Worth
As of early 2026, Elizabeth Hurley’s net worth is estimated at $50 million. This wealth has been built through her long-standing multi-million dollar contracts with Estée Lauder, her successful swimwear line Elizabeth Hurley Beach, and decades of acting residuals. She also owns a stunning $11 million country estate in Herefordshire and an organic farm in Gloucestershire.
Family
Elizabeth is the middle child of Roy and Angela Hurley, with an older sister, Katie, and a younger brother, Michael. Her most famous family connection is her son, Damian Hurley (born 2002), with the late American businessman Steve Bing. Damian, now 23, is a successful model and filmmaker. Elizabeth has often described Damian as her “twin” and “best friend,” and the two frequently collaborate on creative projects.
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Relationships and Romances
Elizabeth Hurley and Hugh Grant
The 13-year relationship between Elizabeth and Hugh Grant (1987–2000) remains one of the most famous pairings in Hollywood history. They stayed together through massive public scandals, and even after their split, they remained incredibly close. Hugh is the godfather to Elizabeth’s son, Damian, and Elizabeth has often referred to Hugh as her “best friend” and a member of her family.
Elizabeth Hurley and Arun Nayar
In 2007, Elizabeth married Indian businessman Arun Nayar in a series of lavish ceremonies in both England and India. The wedding was a global media event, though the couple eventually divorced in 2011. Despite the split, Elizabeth has maintained a positive relationship with Arun, often spending holidays together with their extended families.
Elizabeth Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus
In one of the most surprising celebrity pairings of recent years, Elizabeth went public with her relationship with country music legend Billy Ray Cyrus in April 2025. The couple met on the set of the film Christmas in Paradise in 2022 but didn’t begin dating until 2024. As of January 2026, they are still going strong; Elizabeth recently hosted a massive James Bond-themed New Year’s Eve party where Billy Ray was by her side. She has shared that “everyone loves everyone” in their blended families, noting that Damian has even bonded with Billy Ray’s daughter, Miley Cyrus.
Controversies
Elizabeth has famously maintained her poise through several “ugly” controversies.
- The Paternity Battle: In 2001, she faced a public battle with Steve Bing, who initially denied paternity of their son, Damian. A DNA test eventually proved he was the father.
- The Safety-Pin Dress: While iconic now, the Versace dress she wore in 1994 was originally criticized by some as “too scandalous,” though it is now credited with launching her career.
- The Inheritance Dispute: In recent years, Elizabeth has been vocal about the legal battle involving her son’s late father’s estate, expressing devastation when a judge ruled to exclude Damian from his grandfather’s multi-million-dollar trust.
Elizabeth Hurley’s Age
As of January 2026, Elizabeth Hurley is 60 years old. She celebrated the milestone birthday in June 2025 and kicked off 2026 by posting viral photos in a white bikini and fur coat, proving her long-standing title as a timeless beauty icon.
Elizabeth Hurley Instagram
Elizabeth is a force on Instagram (@elizabethhurley1), where she has over 3 million followers. Her feed is a mix of high-glamour red carpet looks, candid family moments with Damian and Billy Ray Cyrus, and frequent “bikini checks” for her swimwear line. In 2026, she continues to use her platform to advocate for health, fitness, and breast cancer awareness.
Conclusion
Elizabeth Hurley is a woman who has lived several lives, from punk teen to Hollywood royalty to business mogul. As she enters 2026 with a new love and a thriving career, she continues to show the world that life only gets better at 60.
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