Patrick Demarchelier
Princess Diana’s favorite photographer has died
Patrick Demarchelier at an exhibition in New York.
© Paul Morigi / Getty Images
The fashion world mourns the loss of a legend. Photographer Patrick Demarchelier has passed away at the age of 78.
His pictures went around the world. Fashion photographer Patrick Demarchelier has passed away at the age of 78. His fans included the most successful celebrities and models in the world and probably the most popular royal in history – Princess Diana, † 36.
Patrick Demarchelier: An icon is leaving us
“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Patrick Demarchelier on March 31, 2022 at the age of 78.” was announced on his official Instagram account on Thursday evening. The cause of death is so far unclear. It’s news that’s rocking the fashion industry. Just seconds after the announcement, supermodels like Gigi Hadid, 26, and Amber Valletta, 48, expressed their condolences and emotional statements. “I am so saddened by this news. Patrick was one of the first photographers I worked with.” Amber writes under the black and white photo of the Frenchman.
Close connection to Princess Diana (†)
But not only the most successful personalities of the fashion industry were photographed by him. Patrick Demarchelier was the first non-British photographer to capture some of Princess Diana’s most iconic portraits. “We became friends. She was funny and kind – but in the end she was a simple woman who liked simple things.” told Demarchelier about her relationship with Princess Diana in the past.
In October 1989, she contacted the French fashion photographer after seeing some of his photos on the cover of Vogue. A year later, one of the most famous portraits of Princess Diana was created. In a white strapless dress and with a tiara on her head, Diana beams into the camera. A photo that is still one of the most famous photos of Princess Diana and one of Demarchelier’s most popular works.
The famous photo of Princess Diana was exhibited in London in 2016.
© Ray Tang/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
The collaboration between Princess Diana and Demarchelier grew closer over time. Patrick became Diana’s personal photographer and photographed her for the cover of Vogue, among others.
Serious allegations against Patrick Demarchelier
However, in 2018, Patrick Demarchelier’s career took a turn. More than 50 models accuse the French of sexual harassment and abuse. In response to the allegations, Condé Nast (Vogue, Fanity Fair, …) ended their collaboration with him. He himself denied any allegations. Demarchelier leaves behind a wife and three sons.
Sources used: dailymail.co.uk.
This article originally appeared on gala.de.