John Frieda, the renowned British hairstylist and entrepreneur behind a global hair care empire, has passed away at the age of 75. His salon announced the news on Tuesday via Instagram, stating that he died peacefully surrounded by his family.
Frieda was a celebrated figure in the beauty world, known for styling the hair of some of the most famous names in the 1960s and 1970s, including Twiggy, Jackie Onassis, and Mick Jagger. He also created the iconic Purdey bowl cut for actress Joanna Lumley in 1976, a look that became a cultural phenomenon.
A Legacy in Hair and Business
In 1976, Frieda opened his own salon in central London, which quickly became a massive success, with appointments booked months in advance. His reputation as an influential stylist grew, leading to branches in Barbados, Ibiza, and Los Angeles. In the 1990s, he shifted his focus to developing his own brand of hair products, including the revolutionary Frizz-Ease hair serum, which he created in 1988. His business empire expanded rapidly, and in 2002, he and business partner Gail Federici sold the company to Japanese conglomerate Kao for $450 million.
Frieda's personal life was also notable. He was married to Scottish singer Lulu from 1977 to 1990, with whom he had a son. He later married Avery Agnelli, the widow of Fiat heir Giovanni Agnelli, and had two children and a stepdaughter.
Tributes have poured in from the beauty industry and beyond. In their Instagram post, his salon wrote: "John was more than a mentor to us; he was a true icon of the hair industry. He was the person who taught us everything, believed in us, and made us better."
Frieda's influence extended far beyond the salon chair. He was a pioneer in the hair care industry, turning his name into a globally recognized brand. His innovative products and styling techniques have left an indelible mark on the world of beauty.
He is survived by his wife Avery, his children, and a stepdaughter. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
