Why did Nora Aunor and Christopher De Leon separate? All about Filipino superstar’s personal life as she dies at 71

Nora Aunor, one of the Philippines' most celebrated actors and National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, passed away on April 16, 2025. She was 71.

Her daughter, Lotlot de Leon, confirmed the news through a social media post. The post read:

“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Nora Aunor, our beloved mother, celebrated television and movie actress, and a true National Artist of the Philippines. Born on May 21, 1953, she touched generations with her unmatched talent, grace, and passion for the craft. Her voice, presence, and artistry shaped a legacy that will never fade.”

Aunor was married to her former husband, Christopher De Leon, from 1975 until 1996, according to AP News. The couple adopted four children after having one son.

She partially blamed herself for her divorce from Leon. In an interview with Philippine Entertainment Portal, she reflected on the reason behind her failed marriage and said,

"If I hadn't been so stubborn back then, we wouldn't have broken up."

She revealed that the two remained good friends even after their separation. She is survived by her children Lotlet, Ian, Matet, Kiko, and Kenneth de León. Her death has sparked interest in her personal life. Here is what we know.

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Everything we know about Nora Aunor’s personal life

According to a report in GMA Network, Nora Cabaltera Villamayor was born on May 21, 1953, in Iriga, Camarines Sur. She grew up in poverty and sold peanuts and cold water at bus stations. She had nine siblings, out of whom her elder brother, Eddie, entered the show business.

Her grandmother, Lola Theresa, introduced her to music. She taught her songs like The Way of a Clown. Her aunt, Belen Aunor, further honed her singing skills.

She became the Tawag ng Tanghalan champion in 1967. Her victory paved her way to the music industry, and she went on to record albums. In 1972, she won the best actress trophy for her performance in And God Smiled at Me during the QC Festival.

She also bagged several international awards, including the 1995 Cairo International Film Festival Best Actress, Asian Film Awards, and the Asia Pacific Screen Award for Best Actress, according to IMDb.

Her career spanned seven decades with 200 credits in television and film, The Independent reported. In 2022, she was named National Artist for Film and Broadcast Art.

Nora married her fellow actor Christopher de Leon on January 25, 1975, a report in Mabumbe stated. They had one biological child - Ian de León—and adopted four more kids—Lotlot, Matet, Kiko, and Kenneth.

Among them, Lotlot, Matet, and Ian followed her footsteps into the industry. Marion Aunor is her niece, who adds up as another talented actress from her family.

After renewing their vows in 1976, they dissolved their marriage in 1996. In an interview with Philippine Entertainment Portal, she admitted that they remained friends even after their separation. She told the outlet that they continue to date each other.

"He dated me, even though we were separated. He told me about what he had done, and I told him about what he had done to me."

But, despite the separation, her family remained her source of strength. Her son announced her death in a Facebook post and wrote:

“She was the heart of our family—a source of unconditional love, strength, and warmth. Her kindness, wisdom, and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew her. She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever.”

A report in The Hollywood Life indicated that in 2008, Nora became a U.S. citizen but retained her citizenship status in the Philippines and later moved to the country to continue her career.

Today, Nora Aunor is known as one of the most decorated actors of the Philippine film industry, with a record-breaking number of awards and nominations spanning film, television, and stage.