René Angélil

Childhood

Born on 16 January 1942 in Montreal, Quebec, René Angélil was the son of Joseph Angélil (of Syrian descent) and Alice Sara (of Lebanese origin). Raised in a Melkite Greek Catholic household, he attended Collège Saint-Viateur and later Collège André-Grasset.

Career

Angélil began as a pop singer in the 1960s, co-founding the band Les Baronets, which covered English hits in French. By 1972, he transitioned to artist management, partnering with Guy Cloutier to guide stars like Ginette Reno and René Simard.

His biggest gamble was mortgaging his home in 1981 to fund 12-year-old Céline Dion’s debut album—a bet that paid off spectacularly. He managed her career until 2014, steering her to global fame.

Angélil also ventured into business, co-owning Montreal’s famed Schwartz’s Deli in 2012.

Personal life

Marriages & Family

1. First marriage: Denyse Duquette (1966–1972), one son, Patrick.
2. Second marriage: Singer Anne Renée (1974–1986), two children.
3. Third marriage: Céline Dion (1994–2016), three sons: René-Charles (b. 2001) and twins Eddy & Nelson (b. 2010).
   

Revenue

At his death, Angélil’s net worth was estimated at $400 million, largely due to his management of Dion and business ventures.

Interesting facts

• Asteroid Named After Him: In 2021, asteroid 241364 Reneangelil was named in his honor.
• Cancer Advocacy: After surviving throat cancer in 1999, he appeared in Simple Plan’s "Save You" music video.
• Defamation Lawsuit: Sued a tabloid for $5 million over false claims about skinny-dipping at Caesars Palace.
  

Legacy

• National Honors: Order of Canada (2013), National Order of Quebec (2009).
• Grammy Tribute: Honored in the 2016 "In Memoriam" segment.
• Céline’s Tribute: Dion often speaks of his enduring influence, saying, "We still live with him every day".