Ruphert, the famed Spanish hairstylist who styled the rich and famous, has left behind not just memories but also a multi-million euro inheritance, sparking heated disputes among his family members.
The celebrity hairstylist, whose real name was Ruperto Murillo, passed away on February 2, 2025, at the age of 82, from a heart attack. His death shocked the world of glamour and beauty, as he was known for putting the hair of high-profile clients like Grace Kelly and Lola Flores under his expert scissors. His contributions to hairstyling were significant; Ruphert was one of the first to introduce unisex salons and cranial massages across Spain.
Just days following his death, family tensions began to surface as the details of his estate came to light. Ruphert’s fortune is estimated to be around 10 million euros, including eight properties scattered across exclusive locations such as Madrid and Valencia. Yet, contrary to expectations, his longtime partner Osvaldo was excluded from the will. The news, reported by various sources, has left many shocked, especially considering the couple’s 30-year relationship.
Pepe Yerga, a close friend of Ruphert, reflected on the situation, noting, "A Osvaldo y Ruphert se les rompió el amor de tanto usarlo," implying the relationship had soured over the years but remained amicable until Ruphert's passing. This comment indicates the complexity of their bond, which endured numerous ups and downs as detailed by reports from Y ahora Sonsoles.
The funeral for Ruphert, held shortly after his passing at the Madrid Temple of Jesús de Medinaceli, attracted numerous personalities from the entertainment industry, alongside Ruphert’s family. Surprisingly, Osvaldo was not present, leaving many to speculate on the state of their relationship at the time of his death. According to Liberto López de la Franca, another close friend, "Osvaldo es una persona excepcional y está muy afectado con el fallecimiento de Ruphert,” highlighting the emotional toll of this loss.
His sister Carmen also played a pivotal role following his death. She managed the burial and was noted to organize the funeral, though the arrangements have been met with criticism from some relatives. For example, Ruphert's cousin, Toraya, voiced her discontent, stating on 'Y ahora Sonsoles' she learned about the funeral via social media, which pointed to cracks and disputes within the family.
Ruphert left behind clear instructions about his estate, which appear to favor his two nephews, who he considered as his own children. Reports indicate he wrote his first will years ago but altered his desires as time passed, reflecting how his relationships evolved. According to statements made on 'Fiesta,' "Hizo un primer testamento que modificó a los años. Siempre quiso hacer herederos a sus sobrinos porque eran como sus hijos.”
These insights illuminate the opposition brewing among heirs, particularly over Ruphert's luxurious properties. The most coveted assets include his expansive home near the Congress of Deputies and prime commercial locales along Madrid's Golden Mile, both valued at millions. The disputes do not just hinge upon wealth; they reflect broken ties and conflicting perceptions of family dynamics.
The situation surrounding Ruphert’s estate suggests impending legal battles, one likely spicy with family drama as the contention over the inheritance gains momentum. Many relatives are expected to lay claim to their shares, and the lack of agreement points toward potential lawsuits. It is well known how inheritance matters can evoke the worst among families.
While Ruphert’s legacy as one of Spain's stylists may endure, the below-the-surface disagreements among his loved ones will shape how the story continues to evolve posthumously. The blend of fame and familial ties makes this not just another celebrity life but also underlines the very human struggles over the treasures left behind.