Brooklyn Beckham is the 23-year-old son of David Beckham and former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham. At some point this weekend, he will walk down the aisle with 27-year-old actress Nicola Peltz. Nicola is best known for her role as Katara in The Last Airbender, for her role in Bates Motel, and as Tessa Yeager in Transformers: Age of Extinction.
Nicola is the daughter of billionaire Nelson Peltz. Her mom, Claudia Heffner Peltz, is a former fashion model and the third wife of Nelson. Nicola has one sister and six brothers, including former professional hockey player Brad Peltz and actor Will Peltz. This impressive family background adds a layer of interest to her upcoming nuptials with Brooklyn.
Aunt Chandi Duke Heffner: An Unusual Connection
Nicola's aunt, Chandi Duke Heffner, is a character with an interesting past. Chandi, a former belly dancer and Hare Krishna devotee, made a significant impact on the world around her, especially through her relationship with the wealthy and reclusive Doris Duke.
In the 1980s, Chandi relocated to Hawaii, where she formed a deep friendship with Doris Duke. Doris was known for her wealth, due in part to her inheritance from her tobacco magnate father, and she had a reputation for living a lavish lifestyle filled with travel and philanthropy. This friendship would lead to a series of surprising events that would captivate many.
The Unique Bond Between Doris Duke and Chandi Heffner
The bond between Doris and Chandi grew rapidly, with Doris believing that Chandi was the reincarnation of her daughter, Arden. Together, they traveled the world, indulging in Doris's wealth and enjoying luxurious experiences.
Some of their adventures included spending time in Russia, seeking "fountain of youth" treatments in Romania, and even shopping for a $25 million Boeing 737. Their travels were not limited to just extravagant experiences; they also adopted two camels after learning they were endangered, showcasing their compassion for animals.
An Unconventional Adoption
In a surprising twist, Doris adopted Chandi in 1988 when Chandi was 35 years old and Doris was in her mid-70s. This unusual adoption raised eyebrows, prompting many to question the nature of their relationship.
Upon adopting Chandi, Doris promised to care for her for the rest of her life and named her executor of her will. Chandi took control of Doris’s life, managing her household and finances while traveling together. However, in 1991, Doris cut Chandi off, leaving many puzzled about the reasons behind this decision.
The Legacy of Doris Duke
Doris Duke passed away in 1993, leaving a significant fortune behind. However, according to the terms of her will, most of her wealth was directed to charity. The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation currently manages assets worth approximately $2 billion and has generously donated $1.84 billion since its inception.
In a shocking turn of events, Chandi was left with nothing after Doris's death. In pursuit of her rightful share, Chandi sued Duke's estate and astonishingly received a $65 million settlement, equivalent to around $125 million today. This unexpected outcome highlights the complexities of family dynamics and legal battles following the death of a wealthy individual.
A New Chapter in Hawaii
Today, Chandi lives on a lavish farm in Hawaii, where she rescues horses, donkeys, pigs, birds, and other animals. Her journey from a belly dancer to a prominent figure connected to the Beckham family is both inspiring and intriguing.
As Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz prepare to tie the knot, they bring with them a fascinating family history that intertwines with Chandi's unique story. This connection reminds us that even amid fame and fortune, the past can reveal layers of complexity and unexpected relationships.
And as they embark on this new chapter of their lives, one can only wonder what stories and adventures await them. What an interesting life they all lead!