Sam McKnight, a legendary hairstylist renowned for his work with celebrities like Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell, has opened up about his lasting bond with the late Princess Diana, who he describes as irreplaceable. Over his 40-year career, McKnight’s most significant collaboration was with Diana, whose iconic blonde bob he crafted.
McKnight first met Diana in 1990 during a Vogue photoshoot, and he fondly recalls her warm introduction: “Princess Diana comes bouncing up the stairwell… both of us melted.” They maintained a close professional relationship for the next seven years, even traveling together on royal tours, including a memorable trip to India in 1992.
Reflecting on Diana’s impact, McKnight stated, “There’s never really been a replacement for her,” emphasizing the unique “void” left by her tragic death in 1997. He cherished her sense of humor and highlighted the personal connections they formed, recalling her playful side through the “filthy” birthday cards she would send him.
In his interview, McKnight also weighed in on the current royal family dynamics, expressing sorrow over Meghan Markle’s departure from royal duties with Prince Harry in 2020, which he believed limited her potential impact. However, he praised Kate Middleton for her role as Princess of Wales, indicating she is doing a commendable job.
McKnight reminisces about the early days of Diana’s hairstyle transformation, noting how her iconic look began with a daring chop following their initial shoot. He creatively crafted the appearance of short hair for the photoshoots before making the cut permanent, resulting in an iconic style that remains influential even decades later.
In addition to his reflections on Diana, McKnight has also made headlines with his candid remarks about Prince Harry’s thinning hair, humorously suggesting a transplant or a shorter cut akin to his brother, Prince William.
Overall, McKnight’s insights not only celebrate the legacy of Princess Diana but also highlight the evolving landscape of the royal family. His stories resonate with nostalgia, offering a reminder of the timeless elegance cultivated by Diana, who continues to be a style icon nearly 30 years after her passing.