Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · June 27, 2025 · Entertainment

Venice Prepares for Jeff Bezos' Opulent Wedding: Exes and A-Listers in Attendance

Lauren's ex-boyfriend, NFL star Tony Gonzalez (back right in floral shirt) is among the A-listers attending the wedding - the former couple had a son in 2002

LAUREN SANCHEZ'S FAIRYTALE WEDDING: BEZOS, CELEBRITIES, AND A TOUCH OF DYSFUNCTION

In a whirlwind of luxury and drama, Amazon owner Jeff Bezos is set to tie the knot with his long-time girlfriend Lauren Sanchez in Venice, Italy. The multi-billionaire's lavish three-day extravaganza has drawn some of the world's most high-profile celebrities, including Kim Kardashian, Oprah Winfrey, and Orlando Bloom. But amidst all the glamour and glitz, there's a hint of dysfunction - and it all revolves around Bezos' bride-to-be.

Lauren Sanchez, 55, is no stranger to controversy. The mother-of-one has been linked to several high-profile men in the past, including NFL star Tony Gonzalez. The couple dated in the early 2000s, welcomed their son Nikko in 2002, and even threw cheating allegations at each other during a rocky separation. However, it seems they've put their differences aside - for now.

Lauren and Tony's son Nikko (pictured centre) was spotted in Venice before his mother's wedding last night

Tony Gonzalez, 46, was spotted with his son Nikko in Venice ahead of the wedding, leaving some to wonder if he'll be invited to the big day. Sources close to the family claim that Tony and Lauren have developed a strong friendship over the years, despite their complicated past. In fact, they've even spent time on Bezos' luxurious yacht together with their new partners.

But it's not just Tony who's got a connection to Bezos' bride. The mother-of-one has been close friends with October Gonzalez, Tony's wife, for some time. The group has reportedly been inseparable, attending each other's events and parties - including Lauren's bachelorette bash in Paris last month.

As the wedding preparations continue, controversy is brewing. Locals are up in arms over the impact of the lavish celebration on Venice' fragile heritage site. Council chiefs have blocked off access to the iconic bell tower, which has been covered in scaffolding for repairs - a move that's left some speculating that Bezos might not have even checked out the venue before booking it.

Lauren Sanchez is pictured with her former boyfriend, footballer Tony Gonzalez (seen together in 2002)

Meanwhile, security guards are working overtime to keep activists at bay. The group, who've been protesting for weeks, claim the celebrations will turn Venice into a "private amusement park" for the rich and famous. But Bezos' team is undeterred - and with over 90 private jets set to land in local airports this week, it's clear that no expense has been spared.

In a bizarre twist, a wedding organiser was photographed carrying a printed guest list - complete with sensitive details of the VIP event. The blunder has raised eyebrows among security experts, who warn that such mistakes can put lives at risk.

As for Bezos and Sanchez, they seem to be living their best lives. Lauren was overheard telling Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, and Kylie Jenner that she's "living a fairytale" - and with her soon-to-be husband boasting an estimated net worth of $200 billion, it's hard to argue with that.

They welcomed a son, named Nikko Gonzalez, together in 2002 before splitting. She's seen with Nikko in 2003

But will this fairy tale have a happy ending? Only time (and the champagne-fueled celebrations) will tell.

The NFL star and Lauren have since been spotted on numerous outings together , along with their new partners. They're pictured with their son Nikko recently

Tony's new wife October Gonzalez is a close friend of Lauren's and even attended her bachelorette party in Paris last month

Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos' A-list guests like Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner were forced to take cover on Thursday as the couple's pre-wedding party was hit by a huge freak thunderstorm

Thursday night's star-studded soiree was brought to an early end due to the intense downpour; Sanchez and Bezos pictured leaving the party

Torrential downpours and a strong wind left guests like Kim and Khloe Kardashian (pictured) soaked as they then dashed for water taxis which had been scrambled a good 45 minutes ahead of the midnight finish time

Bride-to-be Lauren was surrounded by tuxedo-clad gentleman carrying blue umbrellas over her

Bezos, 61, was seen following closely behind Lauren with an umbrella over his head