Martha Stewart's Legendary Hairdresser, John Barrett Dead at 66

Hairstylist John Barrett with the Olsen twins, Ashley and Mary Kate.Photo byRichard Corkery/NY Daily News Archive via Getty Images

John Barrett, a well-known hairdresser who had A-list customers and a legendary salon in Bergdorf Goodman's New York penthouse, died unexpectedly. He was 66.

Blood cancer was the cause of his death, according to Julianne Jaffe, a close friend and health representative (WWD).

Hillary Clinton, the Olsen twins, Princess Diana, Martha Stewart and Reese Witherspoon were among the clientele of this industry legend.

His team shared the news in an Instagram post on Wednesday,

“On behalf of The John Barrett Salon Team, we regretfully announce, with great pain, the passing of our founder & owner, the legendary John Barrett. He lit up any room that he walked into with his charm, wit, and candor, his superhuman talent was his ability to make anyone who sat in his chair feel like the most beautiful person in the world. John, we will always miss you, love you and we will carry on in your honor and memory. Thank you for all you have done for us and the beauty industry. Rest in peace our dear friend. He lived by the phrase, 'It's not just about the hair, it's about the care. He cared with great passion for his beloved family, friends, salon and staff."

Melissa Xides, Bergdorf Goodman’s chief retail officer had this to say about Barrett,

“John was someone who had every politician, celebrity, every incredible client that came to Bergdorf Goodman; people still reference his legendary service and first-class hands today, he was at Bergdorf Goodman for 20 years, which was legendary, and he gave sublime service to all of his clients. He has a legacy of that. Our hearts go out and we extend our sympathy to him and his family and his team at this time.”

Hair stylist John Barrett.Photo byThos Robinson/Getty Images

Barrett, an Irishman from Limerick, traveled to London while he was in his teens and started working as an apprentice hairdresser in the 1970s. Later, he relocated to Los Angeles, where he started developing relationships with influential people in journalism and Hollywood elites.

He established his first salon in New York City in the renowned Bergdorf Goodman building by 1996, when his distinctive "Bergdorf Blonde" shade was created.

May 31-Martha Stewart attends Sesame Workshop's 2023 Benefit Gala.Photo byArturo Holmes/Getty Images

Whether it was for an impulsive spa day or the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit red carpet that took place this past May, he collaborated with Martha Stewart on a variety of styles.

Stewart told WWD, “John was a good friend and a fantastic hairdresser, we will miss him sorely.”