An inestimable loss for nightlife
Olivia Valère, a Moroccan-born French businesswoman who left a deep mark on the Marbella nightlife scene, died on June 9, 2022 in Paris. At the age of 75, Olivia lost her battle with stomach cancer that had plagued her for about a year.
His passing marks the end of a golden era in the Spanish city, leaving behind a complex and rich legacy. Olivia Valère is recognized not only for her business empire, but also for her close relationship with Joan Charles I, who was part of the businesswoman’s inner circle.
A key figure in Marbella society
For decades, Olivia Valère was a fundamental part of the social and business fabric of Marbella. Alongside her husband, Philippe Roger, she built a network of contacts and businesses that placed her in a privileged position among the Spanish elite. After her death, Philippe, a prominent 82-year-old French lawyer, became the universal heir to the entire estate, a fact that caused disagreement between Olivia’s children, Karen and Arnaud.
The relationship with Philippe Roger
A love story that lasted
Olivia and Philippe met in 1973 on the Champs-Élysées, starting a love affair that lasted until Olivia’s death. She, who already had two children, Arnaud and Karen, from a previous marriage to Albert Albouhair, and Philippe, who was also the father of Virginia, an artist living in the United States, formed a complex but close-knit family.
In 1984, the couple moved to Marbella, thanks to their friend Kimera, a Korean singer. In this city, Olivia Valère saw the opportunity to fulfill her dreams and opened a night club. Initially, she divided her time between businesses in France, Morocco, Argentina and Lebanon, but over time, she and Philippe concentrated on consolidating their empire on the Costa del Sol.
Family life and challenges after loss
From her marriage to Philippe Roger, Xavier was born, who became a great emotional support for Philippe after Olivia’s death. The family, despite complications and past loves, stayed together. Albert Albouhair was even welcomed as one of Philippe’s closest friends.
After the death of Olivia Valère, Philippe remembered his wife as a person incapable of harming anyone and with a clear criterion about who was worth keeping ties with.
A disputed legacy
Olivia’s burial was carried out according to Jewish customs, in which Philippe became the sole universal heir. This decision was not well received by Olivia’s children, Karen and Arnaud, who accused Philippe of ransacking the family home and taking valuable possessions, including paintings and a high-value sports car. This situation devastated Philippe, who expressed his disappointment at the unfair accusations.
“For almost 50 years, they have been like my own children. They have had everything they wanted thanks to the work of Olivia and me. I would never have expected this situation,” declared Philippe. He further specified that, although Olivia was the visible face of the businesses, the properties and projects were actually shared.
Olivia Valère leaves a legacy that goes beyond business: a story of self-improvement, love and building an empire together with Philippe Roger. Her disappearance has been a strong blow to all those who knew and admired her.
