John Frieda, the renowned British hairstylist and founder of the global Frizz Ease brand, has died at the age of 75. The news was announced on Tuesday via a statement posted to his Instagram account. While the specific cause of death was not immediately disclosed, the statement noted that he passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family.
In the tribute, those close to Frieda described him as a true icon of the hair industry and a mentor who inspired countless professionals. The statement highlighted that he was the person who taught many in the field everything they knew, believing in their potential and helping them grow. It added that his talent and passion touched a wide audience and that his legacy would continue to live on through the work of those he influenced.
Throughout his distinguished career, Frieda worked with some of the most famous figures in history and entertainment. His client list included Princess Diana, pop superstar Madonna, former first lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis, and The Beatles. He also styled prominent actors such as Sarah Jessica Parker and Scarlett Johansson, solidifying his reputation as a go-to stylist for high-profile individuals.
Born in London in 1951, Frieda grew up in a family with roots in the hairdressing business. His father owned a salon in west London. In a 2012 interview with The Standard newspaper, Frieda recalled that his father had originally wanted him to become a doctor. However, he chose to pursue a career in hair styling, partly to avoid the rigors of medical studies.
Frieda worked his way up through the London hairstyling scene, collaborating with other industry leaders and styling models for Vogue fashion shoots. More than three decades ago, he opened his first salon in London. His success allowed him to expand his operations, eventually opening branches in Los Angeles and New York City.
His impact on the industry extended beyond styling services. In the 1990s, Frieda launched the Frizz Ease brand, introducing a serum designed to tame frizzy hair. The product line has since achieved global popularity, with its items sold in drug stores and salons around the world.
Frieda’s personal life was marked by high-profile relationships. He married Scottish pop singer and actor Lulu in 1976. The couple had one son together before divorcing. In the early 2000s, he began a relationship with Avery Agnelli, the widow of Fiat heir Giovanni Agnelli. They married in 2019 and share two children, along with a stepdaughter.
His stepdaughter, Asia Agnelli Lagrange, shared a brief tribute online following the announcement. She described Frieda as the best man to ever exist, noting that she was sharing the news because she knew he had touched the lives of so many people.
