John Frieda, the creator of the iconic 'Purdey' hairstyle popularly known in Sri Lanka during the 1980s as the 'Diana cut', has passed away at the age of 75. Over his illustrious career, he styled the hair of numerous global icons including Princess Diana, Twiggy, Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Madonna and Scarlett Johansson.

His salon announced on Tuesday via Instagram that beloved John had passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. The statement noted that he was a giant in the hairdressing industry and a mentor, and that his legacy would continue.

Key Points

  • John Frieda was 75 years old at the time of his passing
  • The 'Purdey' or 'Diana cut' he created in 1976 became hugely popular worldwide
  • He styled hair for numerous prominent celebrities including Princess Diana, Madonna and Scarlett Johansson
  • The cause of death has not yet been made public

How Alan became John: The beginning of a journey

Born Alan Howard Frieda in London in 1951, both his father and grandfather were also in the trade. His father ran a salon in Ealing while his grandfather was a Fleet Street barber. Because there was another stylist named Alan where he worked, he changed his name to 'John'.

Later joining the House of Leonard in London, he worked as an assistant to Leonard Lewis. Opening his first salon in 1976 at the age of 25, John created a massive sensation across Britain that same year with the 'Purdey' cut designed for Joanna Lumley in the television series 'The New Avengers'.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of our beloved John passing away peacefully, surrounded by his family,” his salon stated.

Business triumphs and personal life

Marrying 'Shout' singer Lulu in 1976, John went on to establish the world-renowned Frizz Ease product range and a chain of salons. In 1989, he was named British Hairdresser of the Year and contributed regularly to British Vogue and Harper's Bazaar magazines.

Following his divorce from Lulu in 1991, with whom he had a son named Jordan, he later married Frances Avery Agnelli in 2019, having two children, Jackson and Leyla. In 2002, he sold his haircare business to Japan's Kao Corporation for 260 million pounds, retaining ownership of five salons. At the time of his death, he leaves behind his wife, four children, and two grandchildren.