Renowned hairstylist and philanthropist Trevor Sorbie has died at the age of 75 after a brave fight with terminal cancer. Known for his profound impact on the hairdressing industry, Sorbie left a lasting legacy both through his professional achievements and charitable endeavors.
The Sun reported that Sorbie's passing comes after a public battle with terminal bowel cancer that had metastasized to his liver, as recently shared in a poignant television appearance.
Sorbie's death was confirmed by posts on his social media accounts, highlighting the considerable influence and reach he had throughout his career.
His diagnosis with terminal bowel cancer, which spread to his liver, was publicly revealed last month during a heartfelt appearance on the TV show "This Morning," where he was accompanied by his wife, Carole. During this interview, Sorbie candidly spoke about his health struggles and candidly warned viewers that he might not live to see Christmas.
The path to this point began when Sorbie faced a grim diagnosis. Initially identified in 2019, his bowel cancer led to a six-hour surgical procedure. Despite the low odds of recurrence, Sorbie's cancer returned and spread, putting him in a difficult position once more. By June of the current year, medical professionals estimated he had just six months remaining.
Choosing a path that aligned with his values, Sorbie declined further chemotherapy, which he referred to as "poison," determined to pass away at home. His decision was influenced by prior experiences in 2020, where he endured nerve damage from chemotherapy treatments.
In a courageous stance against his illness, Sorbie continued to work at his craft, maintaining a reduced schedule until just two weeks before his death.
Despite the presence of a significant tumor near his liver that doctors deemed too risky to remove, he demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. Sorbie famously stated that he refused to feel pity for himself, illustrating his tenacity and spirit.
His practical, yet poignant planning extended even to the details of his passing. Sorbie expressed his wish that his ashes be interred alongside those of his wife and their beloved dog, Lisbon. In keeping with his desire to maintain control over the narrative of his life and passing, Sorbie declined the prospect of a traditional funeral, finding the thought too distressing.
Sorbie’s illustrious career began with an apprenticeship under his father's guidance, eventually leading him to collaborate with the legendary Vidal Sassoon. This set the stage for him to open his own salon in 1977, a pivotal moment that would cement his status in the hairstyling world.
His creativity and skill culminated in the development of new styles, including the iconic wedge haircut, which captured the attention of celebrities and the public alike.
Over the years, Trevor Sorbie became synonymous with excellence in hairstyling. He also launched a successful line of hair products, further establishing his reputation as an innovator and industry leader. Beyond his contributions to styling, Sorbie was passionate about philanthropy.
Driven by personal experiences and empathy, Sorbie founded the charity My New Hair, which provides support to individuals coping with medical hair loss due to cancer treatment.
This organization stands as a testament to his desire to use his skills for the greater good, offering confidence and dignity to those dealing with the emotional impact of hair loss.
His dedication to his craft and charitable work earned him significant acclaim, including being awarded an MBE in 2004, recognizing his contributions to hairdressing and charity.
Sorbie's focus was always on making a positive difference, whether through transformative hairstyles or through acts of kindness and support. As the world reflects on the life of Trevor Sorbie, his enduring legacy continues to inspire both those within the salon industry and beyond.
