In the world of entertainment, fame can be a double-edged sword. For many, it opens doors to unparalleled opportunities; for others, it can lead to a series of personal struggles and disappointments. Matt Lattanzi, a former dancer and actor, has experienced both the highs and lows of Hollywood, particularly during his marriage to the legendary Dame Olivia Newton-John. Their relationship was not only a pivotal moment in Lattanzi’s life but also a chapter filled with love, heartache, and ultimately, transformation. Join us as we delve into the life of Matt Lattanzi, exploring his early career, his marriage to Olivia, and the aftermath of their split.
The Early Days: Striving for Success
Born in 1960, Matt Lattanzi began his journey in the entertainment industry as a dancer. His passion for performing arts led him to various opportunities, including roles in musical theater and television. Despite his talent, he faced challenges in establishing a steady career. That all changed in 1980 when he landed his first major role in the film Xanadu. This musical fantasy film became the backdrop for one of the most significant encounters of his life—his meeting with Olivia Newton-John.
Olivia, a renowned British-Australian singer and actress, was already a star by the time they met. She had a string of successful hits, including “Physical” and “I Honestly Love You.” When they first crossed paths on the Xanadu set, Lattanzi was just 21 years old, while Olivia was 32. Despite the 11-year age difference, their chemistry was undeniable, and they quickly began dating.
A Love Story Blossoms
In December 1984, after several years of dating, Lattanzi and Newton-John tied the knot. Their marriage was celebrated in a time when the world was captivated by Olivia’s music and movie stardom. The couple welcomed their only child, a daughter named Chloe Rose Lattanzi, on January 17, 1986. As new parents, they navigated the joys and challenges of family life, seemingly solidifying their bond.
In 1993, the family made a significant move to Australia, where Lattanzi took on a role in the soap opera Paradise Beach. However, this period also marked a downturn in his acting career. With Olivia’s star continuing to rise, Matt struggled to find his footing in the industry.
The Cracks Begin to Show
Behind the façade of a perfect family, cracks began to form in Lattanzi and Newton-John’s marriage. The pressures of fame, combined with differing spiritual beliefs, created tensions that were hard to overcome. According to reports, the couple’s divergent paths in terms of their personal and spiritual lives were a significant factor in their separation.
However, the final straw came when it was revealed that Lattanzi had an affair with their babysitter, Cindy Jessup. The relationship began during a difficult time when Olivia was battling breast cancer. The betrayal devastated Olivia, leading her to make the painful decision to divorce Lattanzi in 1995. This public scandal not only affected their personal lives but also significantly impacted Lattanzi’s career, as he stepped away from the spotlight following their split.
A New Chapter: Second Marriage and Personal Growth
After his divorce from Olivia, Lattanzi married Cindy Jessup in 1997. At 40 years old, he began a new chapter with his former babysitter, who was 28 at the time. Jessup briefly pursued an acting career, appearing in low-budget productions, but their marriage was fraught with its own challenges. Ten years later, in 2007, the couple separated, marking the end of Lattanzi’s second marriage.
The aftermath of his tumultuous relationships led Lattanzi to reevaluate his life choices and priorities. After two failed marriages, he found love again with Michelle Lattanzi. The couple now resides on a 115-acre medicinal cannabis farm in Oregon, where they work together, nurturing both their relationship and their business. This new venture has provided Matt with a sense of stability and purpose, allowing him to step away from the chaos of Hollywood.
A Tribute to Olivia Newton-John
The passing of Dame Olivia Newton-John on August 8, 2022, at the age of 73, was a profound loss felt around the world. Her legacy as an artist and philanthropist continues to inspire many, including Matt. Following her death, Michelle Lattanzi paid tribute to Olivia on social media, expressing her sorrow and admiration for the woman who had been a significant part of Matt’s life.
Michelle wrote, “Today we lost one of the world’s greats, Olivia Newton-John. Matt and I are so overwhelmed with the love and gratitude shared with us by friends, family, and a deeply loving community of fans who will all miss Olivia’s presence in this world.” Her heartfelt words resonated with fans and served as a reminder of Olivia’s enduring impact on culture and society.
Chloe Rose Lattanzi: A Star in Her Own Right
Chloe Rose Lattanzi, Matt’s only daughter, has followed in her parents’ footsteps, pursuing a career in entertainment. Born on January 17, 1986, she is now an accomplished singer and actress. Chloe has collaborated with her mother on several projects, including a dance remix of Olivia’s classic hit “Magic,” which topped the Billboard dance charts in 2015. Their bond has only strengthened over the years, and they even released another duet, “Window in the Wall,” in 2021.
Chloe’s journey has not been without its challenges, including struggles with addiction and extensive plastic surgery. Despite these hurdles, she remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, often using her platform to advocate for mental health and wellness.
Conclusion: A Life Reshaped by Love and Loss
Matt Lattanzi’s life story is a poignant reminder of the complexities of love and the challenges of fame. From his early struggles as a dancer to his rise to prominence through his marriage to Olivia Newton-John, and ultimately, to his journey of personal growth and healing, Lattanzi’s experiences reflect the human condition in all its richness.
As he continues to cultivate his life in Oregon with Michelle and support his daughter Chloe, Matt exemplifies resilience in the face of adversity. While the memories of his past relationships linger, they have shaped the man he is today—a man who has learned to find joy in the present while honoring the legacy of those he has loved and lost.
