Growing up in Sweden, Tatjana Patitz began her remarkable journey into the modeling industry at just 17 years old. An astounding 3rd place finishes in a Stockholm-based competition allowed for an opportunity of a lifetime – to travel abroad with limited modeling contracts and consequently kickstart what would become one of the most successful supermodel careers known today.
Tragically, Patitz’s existence was cut short when her agent Corrine Nichols announced that she had passed away due to breast cancer on Wednesday, January 11th, 2023. She was laid to rest in the comfort of her home in Santa Barbara, California; having reached the age of 56 prior to her departure.
Vogue recently reported the unfortunate news of Patitz’s death, attributing it to metastatic breast cancer. Although she was a model who had graced the pages of many fashion magazines, her love for nature and animals led her to choose California as home over Paris or New York–a testament to how much she valued privacy over fame. Her life serves as an inspiring reminder that what truly matters is living life on your own terms without having to seek validation from others.
When word came of Patitz’s passing, fellow supermodel Cindy Crawford posted a throwback photo of the two from their days in the modeling industry. She wrote, “So sad to hear of the passing of the beautiful @tatjanapatitz. We were babies together in the fashion industry and I feel like we grew up together.”
Along with Crawford, Patitz was part of the all-star cast on British Vogue’s 1990 cover alongside superstars Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista and Christy Turlington. Moreover, this iconic group appeared together in George Michael’s music video “Freedom! ’90,” cementing their status as ultimate supermodels.
Jonah Johnson, Patitz’s 19-year-old son, carries on the legacy of his mother. Last year, she candidly told to Vogue “Jonah is my source of happiness.” In October, she and her son graced the red carpet in Germany for a very special event: A tribute to Bambi in Berlin.
