Who Is Noelene Edwards?
Noelene Edwards is an Australian homemaker and former public figure best known as the first wife of legendary television host Paul Hogan. Born in 1940 in the Northern Beaches of Sydney, Australia, Noelene Edwards is now 85 years old and has lived a life that transitioned from the spotlight of celebrity marriage to a quieter existence focused on family and personal fulfillment.
While many know her name through her connection to Paul Hogan, the iconic star of “Crocodile Dundee” and long-time host of “The Paul Hogan Show,” Noelene Edwards has her own compelling story of resilience, motherhood, and finding happiness after heartbreak. Her journey from being a celebrity wife to rebuilding her life speaks to countless women who have navigated similar paths.
Early Life and Background
Growing Up in Sydney’s Northern Beaches
Noelene Edwards was born in 1940 in the picturesque Northern Beaches region of Sydney, Australia. This coastal area, known for its stunning beaches and laid-back lifestyle, shaped her early years and instilled values of simplicity and authenticity that would define her throughout life.
Growing up in post-war Australia, Noelene experienced a time of significant cultural and social change. Her upbringing in this beautiful coastal region provided a strong foundation for the family-oriented life she would later prioritize.
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Marriage to Paul Hogan: The Early Years
How They Met and Fell in Love
Noelene Edwards married Paul Hogan in 1958 when both were young and before Hogan achieved his legendary status in Australian entertainment. At the time of their marriage, Paul Hogan was working as a rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge, far from the glitz and glamour he would later experience.
Their marriage began in humble circumstances, with both partners working hard to build a life together. This period represented a simpler time before television fame, million-dollar movie contracts, and international recognition transformed their lives forever.
Building a Family Together
Throughout their marriage, Noelene Edwards and Paul Hogan welcomed five children:
- Scott Hogan
- Brett Hogan
- Todd Hogan
- Clay Hogan
- Lauren Hogan
As Paul Hogan’s career skyrocketed from bridge worker to television personality to international movie star, Noelene Edwards focused on being a homemaker and raising their five children. She provided stability and normalcy for the family while her husband’s career demanded increasing time and attention.
Divorce from Paul Hogan
Noelene Edwards and Paul Hogan divorced in 1981 after 23 years of marriage and five children together. The split marked a significant turning point in Noelene’s life, forcing her to redefine her identity beyond being “Paul Hogan’s wife.”
Interestingly, the couple briefly reconciled and remarried in 1982, showing that their connection remained strong despite challenges. However, this reunion proved temporary, and they divorced again in 1989, this time permanently.
The Impact of Paul’s Relationship with Linda Kozlowski
Paul Hogan’s relationship with American actress Linda Kozlowski, his co-star in “Crocodile Dundee,” became public during this period. Paul and Linda married in 1990, just a year after his final divorce from Noelene. This transition was undoubtedly difficult for Noelene Edwards, who had invested decades in their marriage and family.
The public nature of Paul’s new relationship added another layer of complexity to an already painful situation. However, Noelene Edwards handled this difficult period with dignity, focusing on her children and personal recovery rather than engaging in public disputes.
Finding Love Again: Marriage to Reg Stretton
A Second Chance at Happiness
In 2000, Noelene Edwards found love again and married Reg Stretton. This marriage represented a fresh start and the opportunity to build a relationship away from the pressures of celebrity life.
Reg Stretton provided Noelene with the stability, companionship, and genuine partnership that she deserved. Their marriage, now in its 25th year, stands as testament to the possibility of finding happiness and love at any stage of life.
Noelene Edwards Net Worth
Noelene Edwards has an estimated net worth between $1 million and $3 million USD.
Life at 85: Current Status and Activities
Private Life in Australia
Now 85 years old as of 2025, Noelene Edwards continues to live in Australia with her husband Reg Stretton. She maintains a private existence, far removed from the public attention that characterized her earlier years.
Health and Well-being
While specific details about her current health status are not publicly available, Noelene Edwards has reached an impressive age. Her longevity suggests a life well-lived, with proper attention to health and well-being throughout her years.
Lessons from Noelene Edwards’ Life Story
Resilience and Reinvention
Noelene Edwards’ story demonstrates remarkable resilience. After investing 23 years in a marriage that ended, she could have remained bitter or defeated. Instead, she rebuilt her life, found new love, and continued focusing on what mattered most: her children and personal happiness.
Dignity in Difficult Times
Throughout her divorces and the public nature of Paul Hogan’s subsequent relationships, Noelene Edwards maintained dignity and grace. She avoided public feuds, bitter statements, or attempts to profit from her connection to a celebrity ex-husband.
Prioritizing Family
Above all else, Noelene Edwards’ life story emphasizes the importance of family. Despite the allure of celebrity culture and public attention, she consistently prioritized her role as mother and later as wife to Reg Stretton.
The Value of Privacy
By choosing a private life in her later years, Noelene Edwards demonstrates wisdom about what truly matters. Her decision to step away from any residual public attention shows self-awareness and clear personal values.
Conclusion
At 85 years old, Noelene Edwards’ life story offers inspiration for anyone who has faced heartbreak, public scrutiny, or the challenge of rebuilding after loss. Her journey from young bride to celebrity wife to divorced mother to happily remarried grandmother demonstrates that life’s chapters continue evolving, and happiness remains possible at any age.
