James Packer Announces Engagement to Kylie Lim
Australian billionaire James Packer has confirmed his engagement to girlfriend Kylie Lim, a move that will mark his third marriage and fifth engagement overall. The 58-year-old son of the late media mogul Kerry Packer shared the news from Los Angeles, stating, "We are very happy to be engaged and looking forward to the future." The couple reportedly dated from 2017 to 2020 before rekindling their relationship last year, with no wedding date set at this stage.
Romantic History and Relationship Details
Packer and Lim, 46, confirmed their engagement to news.com.au after the former Canadian model and socialite was seen wearing a ring on her wedding finger in Aspen, a US ski resort town. The businessman and investor met Lim through mutual friends in Aspen following his messy split from US singer Mariah Carey. Packer has previously stated that his new fiancée helped him through that difficult period, which he described as one of the darkest times of his life.
Packer's romantic history includes:
- Marriage to former model Erica Baxter, with whom he shares children Indigo, Jackson, and Emmanuelle.
- Marriage to model and fashion designer Jodhi Meares.
- Engagements to former Australian model Kate Fischer (now Tziporah Malkah) and Mariah Carey.
Mental Health Struggles and Personal Reflections
In 2024, Packer spoke to 7NEWS Spotlight about his mental health following his break-up with Carey, revealing he had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2020. He reflected on his decades-long private struggle, describing the end of his engagement to Carey as a "trainwreck" due to misunderstandings and threats. Packer emphasized that during his worst times, he had a lot on his mind, highlighting the emotional toll of his high-profile relationships.
Family Dynamics and Recent Tragic News
The engagement announcement comes just days after the death of Packer's cousin, Francis Packer, who was found dead in an apartment in Cammeray, North Sydney, at age 64. Francis, the eldest grandchild of media magnate Frank Packer, had once been in line to take over the Packer media empire but was estranged after a falling out in 1972. This led to the succession passing to Kerry and later James, adding a layer of family history to the current news.
As Packer looks ahead to his future with Lim, his journey through multiple engagements and marriages continues to capture public interest, blending personal milestones with broader family narratives.
