Thierry Bordelais is a Canadian attorney who found himself thrust into the spotlight due to his association with one of Canada’s most notorious criminal cases. Best known as the second husband of Karla Homolka, Bordelais remains an elusive figure despite the considerable public interest that surrounds his marriage. His life has been defined not by public ambition or notoriety, but by an effort to maintain stability and privacy in the face of intense media scrutiny.
Background and Family Origins
Born in Canada, Thierry Bordelais is believed to be in his mid-to-late 50s or early 60s, though his exact birth year has not been publicly confirmed. He is of African descent and holds Canadian nationality. A practicing Christian, Bordelais has largely stayed away from public commentary, even amid heightened attention regarding his personal life.
He is the brother of Sylvie Bordelais, a Canadian attorney who gained media recognition in the early 2000s for serving as Karla Homolka’s defense lawyer during her legal proceedings. This connection would ultimately introduce Thierry to Karla, laying the foundation for a highly controversial relationship that defied public expectations.
Meeting Karla Homolka and a Controversial Union
Karla Homolka, born on May 4, 1970, was convicted for her role in the abduction, sexual assault, and murder of several young girls alongside her first husband, Paul Bernardo. Her crimes shocked the nation, particularly because one of the victims was her own sister, Tammy.
During Homolka’s legal battles, Thierry Bordelais became acquainted with her—likely through his sister Sylvie’s work as her defense attorney. The relationship began while Homolka was still serving her 12-year prison sentence, which had been reduced under a plea bargain. The plea deal, which drew heavy public criticism, allowed her to avoid a life sentence.
After her release in 2005, Homolka married Bordelais in a private ceremony. Their relationship was seen by many as perplexing, given Homolka’s criminal background. Yet Bordelais appeared to embrace a life with her, despite the public outrage.
Life Post-Marriage and Family Challenges
Following their marriage, the couple attempted to build a quiet life together. They welcomed three children—two sons and one daughter. The family, however, found themselves unable to escape the shadow of Karla’s past.
From repeated harassment by the press to neighborhood backlash and demands that their children leave schools, the challenges were persistent and emotionally taxing. At various points, they were forced to relocate multiple times to preserve a sense of normalcy for their family.
In a significant development, reports emerged in January 2020 that Karla Homolka had moved to Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Quebec, living separately from Thierry and their children. While the reasons for this arrangement have not been officially confirmed, it’s widely believed the move was intended to shield the children from ongoing scrutiny. The separation does not necessarily indicate a split in their relationship but rather a tactical effort to provide a more stable and less publicized environment for their upbringing.
Public Perception and Legal Ties
Thierry Bordelais’s life remains one of quiet resilience. Unlike many who find themselves at the center of media firestorms, he has never granted interviews or issued public statements about his marriage. Despite being legally trained and having practiced law in Canada, Bordelais has not allowed his profession to be a platform for public engagement. His low profile is intentional, an attempt to insulate his family from the fallout of Homolka’s past.
Bordelais’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million. This figure is attributed primarily to his work in the legal field, family assets, and private investments. However, due to his extreme privacy and lack of public business ventures, exact numbers remain speculative.
His sister, Sylvie Bordelais, continues to practice law in Quebec and has also avoided media discussions regarding her brother’s relationship with Karla. The Bordelais family, by all accounts, has maintained a consistent stance of silence on the matter.
The Paul Bernardo Legacy
Any mention of Karla Homolka inevitably involves Paul Bernardo, her first husband, who is currently serving a life sentence for his role in the same crimes. Bernardo has been denied parole multiple times, and his continued incarceration serves as a grim reminder of the case’s horrific nature.
Although Karla received a lighter sentence due to her plea deal, public sentiment remains largely unforgiving. Her high-profile criminal history continues to affect her current life and, by extension, Thierry Bordelais’s as well.
A Marriage Under the Microscope
Thierry Bordelais’s marriage to Karla Homolka symbolizes a rare and complex union that defies traditional perceptions of guilt, forgiveness, and redemption. While many have questioned why he chose to marry someone with such a dark past, Bordelais has remained unwavering in his commitment.
This loyalty, whether born of love, faith, or a desire to believe in rehabilitation, has become a central part of his public identity—even though he never asked for one.
