Brad Johns, the renowned hair colourist celebrated for his unique “chunking” technique and his work with the late Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, has passed away at the age of 70. His death occurred on 27 August at his residence in West Hollywood, California, where he had been fighting a prolonged battle with prostate cancer, as revealed by close friends.
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Johns gained prominence in the world of celebrity hairstyling over a remarkable career spanning four decades, during which he worked with an array of high-profile clients. In addition to Bessette Kennedy, he styled the likes of Christy Turlington, Kate Moss, Johnny Depp, and Vanessa Redgrave, among others. His contributions to the beauty industry made him a sought-after figure, known for his distinctive approach to hair colour that emphasised bold highlights and depth.
Born in Pittsburgh in 1955, Johns grew up in Ohio before moving to New York City in the 1970s to pursue a career in acting at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. However, his passion for hairstyling led him to shift his focus. He trained at the Robert Fiance Hair Design Institute, marking the beginning of a successful journey in a field he felt truly passionate about. Early in his career, Johns worked at the legendary New York City salon, Cinandre, where he catered to a clientele that included illustrious personalities such as Salvador Dalí and Joni Mitchell.
His professional association with Carolyn Bessette Kennedy began in 1996 and had a significant impact on her public image. Johns is credited with crafting her iconic blonde hairstyle, a process he described as a meticulous effort to achieve the perfect golden hue, which he referred to as his “child-of-the-beach” shade. Bessette Kennedy, a natural brunette, worked closely with Johns to develop this signature look.
In a recent interview, Johns recounted his approach to creating Bessette Kennedy’s famous style, revealing the nuances of his “chunking” technique. “I went in and put the highlight chunks in three foils around the front of her face, and then two underneath for when she wore her hair up,” he explained. This focused method allowed for attention to detail, ensuring that her hair looked flawless regardless of how it was styled.
As a testament to his lasting influence, Johns expressed his discontent over the depiction of Bessette Kennedy in current media representations. In an interview regarding FX’s upcoming series, “Love Story,” which showcases the romance between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Bessette Kennedy, he voiced his disappointment at how her hair had been portrayed. He remarked that the hair colour chosen for the character did not resonate with the iconic look he had created for Bessette Kennedy, opining that it strayed too far from her true style.
Reflecting on his relationship with Bessette Kennedy, Johns shared a memorable anecdote from the eve of her wedding to John F. Kennedy Jr. in 1996. He recalled a frantic moment when she considered dyeing her hair black, revealing her anxiety leading up to the secretive ceremony. “She said, ‘There’s just a big thing going on,’” he remembered, hinting at the urgency of her request without disclosing the wedding details to him. Ultimately, he succeeded in persuading her to stick to a lighter hair colour that aligned more closely with her previous looks, showcasing his skill in calming her nerves while still respecting her wishes.
Johns’ legacy is one marked by his dedication to his craft and his memorable collaborations with some of the most celebrated figures in fashion and entertainment. His artistry left an indelible mark on the celebrity hairstyling landscape, while his stories and experiences provide a glimpse into a world that was both glamorous and tumultuous.
As the beauty industry mourns his passing, Brad Johns will be remembered not just for his technical skills but for the joy and confidence he brought to his clients through his artistry. His contributions to hairstyling will continue to inspire future generations seeking to carve out their own paths in this vibrant field.