Renowned Hairdresser Trevor Sorbie Passes Away at 75

Renowned celebrity hairdresser Trevor Sorbie, recognized for inventing the wedge haircut, has passed away at 75 years old. The acclaimed Scottish stylist disclosed in October that he had only weeks remaining to live, following the spread of his bowel cancer to his liver. Throughout his career, he styled the hair of many notable figures, such as Dame Helen Mirren and the Beach Boys. Furthermore, he established a charitable organization that offers guidance to patients and NHS personnel regarding wig styling, hair loss, and hair regrowth post-treatment. A statement posted on the Instagram account of his hair salon announced, “It is with heartfelt emotion that we share the passing of our esteemed founder, Trevor Sorbie MBE”. The statement continued, “Trevor passed away peacefully with his family and beloved dog by his side.” It further stated, “Trevor’s journey, marked by unparalleled creativity and kindness, has left an indelible mark on the world of hairdressing and beyond.” Sorbie, a native of Paisley, Renfrewshire, disclosed on ITV’s This Morning last month that his initial bowel cancer diagnosis occurred after he sought hospital care due to significant blood loss during a night. The stylist explained that the cancer had metastasized to his liver, and he had undergone a six-and-a-half-hour surgical procedure to excise parts of it. However, his surgeon ceased further operations because the tumor was situated too near a major blood vessel. Sorbie established his inaugural salon in 1979 in London’s Covent Garden, and his enterprise subsequently expanded to include branches in Brighton, Bristol, Hampstead, Manchester, and Richmond. His team further stated that Sorbie’s “vision set new standards and continues to inspire generations”. The statement also noted, “As we commemorate 45 years of Trevor Sorbie salons, we remain steadfast in upholding the passion, artistry and dedication that he embodied.” It concluded, “Trevor often reminded us to ‘be bold, be different, but always do everything in good taste’. His ethos of kindness, care and excellence continues to guide us.” The statement concluded by mentioning, “He expressed immense pride in our team and confidence in our commitment to carrying forward his legacy.” Throughout his professional life, the stylist founded the charity My New Hair, aiming to offer “public advice and support a national network of independent salons and professionals who provide a wig-styling service for people suffering from cancer and medical hair loss”. His team announced their intention to respect Sorbie’s preference for no funeral service, and in lieu of floral tributes, they encouraged donations to four charities he held “close to his heart”: Marie Curie, Cancer Research UK, Rowans Hospice, and My New Hair. Additionally, a special event is planned for the coming year to “celebrate his remarkable life and contributions”. Sorbie received an MBE in 2004. He was also a four-time recipient of the British Hairdresser of the Year award, instrumental in revolutionizing the hairdressing industry with pioneering styles like the scrunch and the wolf. Furthermore, he developed a successful haircare brand bearing his name. Among the individuals who paid tribute to Sorbie was TV presenter Lizzie Cundy, who expressed being “absolutely heartbroken” by the news. She characterized him as a “gentleman and such fun,” reminiscing about filming several programs with him throughout the years. In a post on X, she wrote, “Thank you for all the laughs. My thoughts and prayers with Trevor’s family at this very sad time. Rest in peace dear Trevor.”