Hairdresser Trevor Sorbie, at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle(Image: Newcastle Chronicle)

Celebrity hairdresser Trevor Sorbie dies aged 75 following terminal cancer diagnosis

by · ChronicleLive

Renowned celebrity hairdresser Trevor Sorbie has sadly passed away at the age of 75, following a battle with terminal cancer. The British hairdressing icon, who frequently appeared on ITV's This Morning to share his expert hair care advice, had informed his followers just weeks prior that the cancer he was first diagnosed with in 2019 had unfortunately spread.

His team confirmed his passing on Friday, after his courageous fight against the disease. A heartfelt message on his Instagram page read: "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", reports the Mirror.

"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."

"Thank you for being an integral part of our community and for your continued support as we honour Trevor's legacy. With gratitude, The Trevor Sorbie Team."

The statement sparked a poignant reaction among fans and followers, with one sharing in the comments, "His name will live on forever. Thank you Trevor for all that you have done for our industry. A true legend and gent."

Another added their sentiment by typing, "A true legend, he may not be with us on this earth any longer, but he will be with us forever in spirit and our heart. Trevor transformed the beauty industry in a way that will leave and everlasting mark in this generation and all future generations. Godspeed Trevor."

The announcement of the esteemed hairdresser's passing arrived mere weeks after it was disclosed that he was contending with terminal cancer and had only weeks left to live. Initially diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2019, in October this year, it was made known that the illness had progressed and turned terminal.

Trevor's health took a turn for the worse, and although he was advised that chemotherapy could potentially prolong his life, he bravely declined the treatment. Discussing his choice on ITV, he remarked: "I can't face any more of that poison."

In an earlier conversation with The Times, he expressed his frustration with the uncertainty of his prognosis, saying: "When I asked a nurse if I'd still be here at Christmas, she said, 'We don't know, Trevor.' And that annoyed me. I've got cancer in my body, but not in here [tapping his head]. My brain is my engine and I'll go when I'm ready."

Chemotherapy, which involves using drugs to destroy cancer cells and halt their growth and spread, was not a path he wanted to take.

Recounting the symptom that led to discovering his illness, Trevor said: "I lost a lot of blood one night and was unusually disturbed so went to hospital. They told me I had bowel cancer and I had a little panic attack. I looked at Carole [his wife] and she looked at me, we were both speechless, didn't know what to say. So I went and had a big gin and tonic."


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