British hairdressing legend Trevor Sorbie dies aged 75

Trevor Sorbie, a legend of British hairdressing and creator of the famous "Wedge" cut, has died at the age of 75.

The news comes a few weeks after Sorbie made a number of television appearances to reveal he had only a short time to live since his bowel cancer had spread to his liver.

In a statement, his team said: "It is with heartfelt emotion that we share the passing of our esteemed founder, Trevor Sorbie MBE. Trevor passed away peacefully with his family and beloved dog by his side. Trevor’s journey, marked by unparalleled creativity and kindness, has left an indelible mark on the world of hairdressing and beyond.

"From pioneering The Wedge five decades ago to establishing our first salon in 1979, Trevor’s vision set new standards and continues to inspire generations. As we commemorate 45 years of Trevor Sorbie salons, we remain steadfast in upholding the passion, artistry, and dedication that he embodied.
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. He expressed immense pride in our team and confidence in our commitment to carrying forward his legacy."

Sorbie, who was born in Scotland but who moved to Essex when he was 11, began cutting hair at the age of just 15 and opened his first barber's salon when he was 20. He went on to work with Vidal Sassoon, Toni & Guy and John Frieda before opening his own London salons in the 1970s. In the 1980s he became one of the first celebrity hairdressers to launch his own haircare line. He was made an MBE by the late HM The Queen in 2004 for his services to the hairdressing industry and charity work.

Sorbie, who was a well-known figure on television, established his own charity "My New Hair" after he was involved in helping his sister in law create a wig that looked like real hair as she battled with bone cancer. He went on to dedicate himself to the charity and lobbied Government to convince ministers to support better wig services for the NHS.

In his memory, people are invited to support this charity and a number of others that were close to his heart. His team statement said: "Honouring Trevor’s wishes, there will be no funeral. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to support four charities: Marie Curie, Cancer Research UK, Rowans Hospice and My New Hair, all close to his heart. We also plan to celebrate his remarkable life and contributions with a special event next year and will share details in due course."

The British Beauty Council honoured Sorbie's enduring legacy saying: "Sorbie’s journey is one that highlights the power of intergenerational training that has come to characterise so many people’s careers within beauty and hairdressing.

"To this day, Trevor Sorbie has passed on the power of hairdressing via a renowned training and apprenticeship programme which is designed to arm people with the vital skills of hairdressing from the shop floor.

"The Council is saddened to hear of the passing of the iconic British hairdresser and shares its sympathies with Trevor Sorbie’s friends, family and colleagues."