The life of late hair legend: John Frieda
By Mirren Fraser
Actress Joanna Lumley models her 'Purdey' haircut with its creator, hairdresser John Frieda. January 1977. (Photo by Staff/Mirrorpix/Getty Images)
Legendary hair stylist and major brand owner john Frieda passed away on November 3rd 2026, at the age of 75. Born Alan Howard Frieda in 1951 to parents Isidore Frieda and Mary Doherty, he had one older brother named Nigel.
Frieda became well known throughout the 1960s and 70s for being the hair stylist of major British icons. Frieda’s first iconic cut came from the 'Purdey bowl cut' he gave to 'The New Avengers' actor Joanna Lumley in 1976, launching his career with a bang.
Frieda was the hairstylist of model Twiggy, First Lady Jackie Kennedy, and Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger. These icons quickly brought him into the public eye and made him a favourite with celebrities.
Frieda authored and collaborated on vintage hair care and styling publications. His most noted being “Your Hair: Cut It, Curl It, Perm It and Style it” which was published in 1983.
Frieda married Scottish pop singer and actress Lulu in 1977, they had a son before divorcing in 1991. He then married Avery Agnelli in 2019 with whom he had two children and a stepdaughter.
Frieda opened his first salon in 1977, carrying on the skills he was taught from his father. This quickly became a popular salon and was booked out for months at a time. Frieda carried on opening branches across the world including places such as Ibiza, Los Angeles, and Barbados.
He then took a break from cutting hair and launched his brand of hair care products in 1988 in partnership with Boots drugstore. He and his business partner then sold this company in 2002 to Japanese company 'Kao' for £334m.
Celebrity hairstylist John Frieda, Wednesday, March 31, 2010. Staff photo by Angela Rowlings.
Frieda gave an interview in June 2026 to give his advice for the future generation of hairstylists.
He said: “The reward is giving her the best haircut she’s ever had. That is your reward”
He was clearly very passionate about his work and giving people the confidence that a haircut should give. Frieda sadly passed in a hospital near his home in November of 2026 surrounded by friends and family after battling cancer.
John Frieda Salon shared his death with the world on their Instagram on Tuesday the 3rd of November.
They said: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that our dear John passed away peacefully."
This post has gained many thoughtful messages in the comments proving that his very successful life is one that will be remembered.