Salma Hayek, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in films like "Frida" and "House of Gucci," has opened up about her financial independence and her marriage to billionaire François-Henri Pinault. In a candid interview with WSJ. Magazine, Hayek revealed her drive to earn her own income, her separate finances, and her husband's admiration for her strong work ethic.
Salma Hayek: A Trailblazer in Her Own Right
Embracing Financial Independence
Salma Hayek's journey to financial independence is a testament to her determination and resilience. Despite her husband's billion-dollar family fortune, the actress has made it a priority to support herself and her lifestyle. "I support a lot of the aspects of my life and myself," Hayek shared, emphasizing her desire to earn her own income. This mindset has driven her to set ambitious financial goals, as she revealed, "I have the pressure to make a certain amount of money, and I like it. And now, I decided, I want to make more."Hayek's commitment to financial independence is particularly noteworthy given her background. Born into wealth due to her father's position as an oil executive, Hayek experienced a significant shift when her father lost his fortune by the time she was in her 20s. This pivotal moment propelled her to become the breadwinner for her family back home, a role she embraced with unwavering dedication. "That's when I became the best version of myself," Hayek reflected, underscoring the transformative power of her financial journey.Navigating the Dynamics of Wealth
Hayek's marriage to billionaire François-Henri Pinault has also brought its own unique challenges. The actress revealed that after tying the knot, those around her were constantly eager to discuss money. "To me, the excitement about having a lot of money was that I didn't have to think about money, and it turned out all people wanted to talk to me about was money," she shared.Furthermore, Hayek noticed that some wealthy individuals sought to befriend her solely because of her bank account. "Strangers coming to me that aren't even friends, but they think we should be friends because they're rich too," she said, highlighting the complexities that can arise when wealth is a factor.Despite these dynamics, Hayek and Pinault have maintained a strong and supportive partnership. The couple, who celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary in 2022, have chosen to keep their finances separate, with no prenuptial agreement dividing their assets. Hayek's husband, the CEO of luxury retail group Kering, has expressed admiration for her work ethic, which Hayek believes he finds "kind of sexy."Exploring New Ventures with Daughter Valentina
Salma Hayek's entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond her own pursuits. The actress revealed that she is considering several ideas for ventures with her 17-year-old daughter, Valentina, whom she shares with Pinault. This collaborative approach to business opportunities showcases Hayek's desire to empower the next generation and create meaningful legacies together.Hayek's openness about her financial journey and her marriage to a billionaire serves as an inspiring example of a woman who has carved out her own path, embracing her independence and ambition while navigating the complexities of wealth and relationships. Her story is a testament to the power of self-determination and the pursuit of one's own dreams, regardless of the resources at one's disposal.