Annette Roque lives a quiet, private life in the Hamptons region of New York, centering her daily routine around her family and long-standing passion for horses. Following the high-profile conclusion of her marriage to former television host Matt Lauer, Roque stepped entirely away from public media exposure, choosing instead to maintain a low profile in the same New York enclave where she spent much of her married life.
Understanding where she is today requires looking past the tabloid headlines of her 2019 divorce and examining how she structured her independence, property holdings, and personal lifestyle.
The Hamptons Residence and the Water Mill Horse Farm
During their marriage, Annette Roque and Matt Lauer accumulated significant real estate assets across Long Island. When their divorce was finalized in September 2019, the division of property reflected both parties' long-term ties to the area. Lauer subsequently listed the massive waterfront compound known as Strongheart Manor in North Haven, New York.
Annette, however, remained rooted locally. Under the terms of their divorce settlement, she retained ownership of the family’s established 40-acre horse farm located in Water Mill, New York. This property—frequently referred to in equestrian circles and real estate reports—matches her long-standing devotion to horses and provides a secluded, private environment away from the public eye. To see the bigger picture, check out the excellent analysis by The New York Times.
Living full-time in the Hamptons allows Roque to manage her personal affairs with a high degree of privacy. Unlike public figures who pivot toward reality television or social media influencer careers after high-profile splits, she has deliberately avoided the spotlight.
Background, Modeling Career, and Transition to Privacy
Before her marriage made her a fixture of celebrity news coverage, Annette built an independent life and career. Born in Denmark, she worked successfully as a professional fashion model in European and American markets during the 1980s and 1990s, using the professional name Jade Roque. Her work took her to major fashion hubs before she eventually settled in New York, where she met Lauer in 1997. They married in October 1998 and welcomed three children together: Jack, Romy, and Thijs.
Throughout her two decades of marriage, Roque balanced family responsibilities with her passion for equestrian sports. While Lauer maintained a high-intensity schedule on morning television, Roque focused heavily on raising their children in a domestic environment. Even when marital strains surfaced—including a brief, unprosecuted divorce filing in 2006 that was quickly withdrawn—she maintained a reserved public demeanor.
Financial Settlement and Independence
When the marriage permanently dissolved in 2019 following Lauer's dismissal from NBC, financial details were heavily scrutinized by media outlets. Reports indicated that Annette secured a divorce settlement valued at approximately $20 million.
This financial framework, combined with full or partial retention of key property assets like the Water Mill equestrian estate, gave her complete financial autonomy. It allowed her to shield her children from excessive media intrusion and maintain a stable, predictable home environment in New York.
Co-Parenting and Family Life Today
Annette and Matt share adult and teenage children, which requires ongoing communication. Despite the intense public scrutiny that surrounded their separation, both parents have prioritized their children's well-being, keeping family matters strictly out of the public domain.
Her life today revolves around routine, personal privacy, and her horses. By refusing to grant post-divorce interviews or engage in public social media profiles, Roque has successfully redefined her life on her own terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Annette Roque originally from?
Annette Roque is originally from Denmark, where she spent her early years before launching an international modeling career that eventually brought her to the United States.
What is Annette Roque's primary profession?
Before marrying Matt Lauer, she worked as a successful fashion model. In her personal life, she is an avid equestrian who has spent decades training and riding horses.
Did Annette Roque remarry after her divorce?
No public records or reliable reports indicate that Annette Roque has remarried. She maintains a strictly guarded personal life focused on her family and private pursuits.
How many children does she share with Matt Lauer?
Annette and Matt share three children: Jack, Romy, and Thijs. They have successfully navigated co-parenting while keeping their children out of the public eye.
