Salma Hayek and François-Henri Pinault attend Notre-Dame reopening after $113M restoration donation

Hayek and her billionaire husband join global leaders in honoring the iconic cathedral’s rebirth.

Salma Hayek and her husband, François-Henri Pinault, were among the distinguished guests at the grand reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral on December 7, 2024, marking the culmination of a five-year, $600 million restoration following the 2019 fire that ravaged the historic Parisian landmark.

Pinault, the CEO of luxury conglomerate Kering and one of France’s wealthiest individuals, contributed over $113 million toward the reconstruction efforts through his family holding company, Artemis. 

The donation, made alongside other major contributions from France’s wealthiest families, was instrumental in the restoration.

Reflecting on the tragedy, Hayek shared her thoughts in 2019, stating: “As many others, I’m in deep shock and sadness to witness the beauty of Notre-Dame turn into smoke. I love you, Paris.”

The reopening ceremony, which welcomed over 1,500 guests including 50 world leaders, was a celebration of global unity and resilience. 

Dignitaries such as President-elect Donald Trump, First Lady Jill Biden, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky joined cultural figures like Hayek to honor the cathedral’s revival.

Hayek, 58, and Pinault, 62, who married in 2009, are known for their philanthropic endeavors. They attended the event as one of France’s most celebrated power couples, with Pinault leading Kering, the company behind iconic brands like Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Alexander McQueen.

The couple met in 2006 at a gala in Venice and have since shared a life of glamour and philanthropy, raising their 17-year-old daughter, Valentina Paloma.

Notre-Dame’s rector, Rev. Olivier Ribadeau Dumas, emphasized the significance of the event, saying, “The cathedral is a magnificent symbol of unity, a sign of hope. What seemed impossible has become possible.”

As the bourdon bell Emmanuel rang out to mark a new chapter for Notre-Dame, the contributions of individuals like Pinault underscored the collective effort to preserve one of the world’s most treasured landmarks.