The life and legacy of Ruphert, the celebrated hair stylist, have come to light following his recent burial, stirring conflicts within his family about how he was finally celebrated.
Ruphert, known for his touch with the scissors and as the stylist behind many of the Spanish glitterati, was laid to rest at the Tomelloso cemetery last Saturday. His cousin, Toraya, expressed discontent over the way the farewell was arranged. She claims it strayed far from Ruphert's wishes for a grand celebration, favoring instead a small gathering dominated by family.
“He had been preparing for his end, even organizing his mausoleum,” Toraya shared. Sadly, her remarks highlight the disappointment felt by relatives who believe Ruphert deserved more than the intimate service organized by his sister, Carmen. Toraya claims, “Carmen was the one who organized everything, and she was very serious; she didn’t approve of the relationships Ruphert maintained.”
This complex family dynamic led to what many feel is not the farewell Ruphert would have wanted. The stylist was known to dream of celebrations filled with laughter and joy. Instead, what transpired was likened by family members to a rite of Cuban Santería—eerily strict and solemn.
Ruphert, whose full name was never disclosed publicly but was celebrated as the hairdresser of stars, lived his life in the prestige of celebrity culture. Colleague Álex Jordán reminisces about their friendship, claiming Ruphert encapsulated the spirit of star quality around the clock. “I still recall the first time I saw him,” he stated. “He told me: ‘You are going to be... a star.’” Their relationship blossomed over the years, buoyed by shared stories and significant moments, including family celebrations.
Originally from humble beginnings, Ruphert climbed the ranks of the hairdressing industry, remaining fiercely independent. “He was a master of the craft,” stated Jordán. “His artistry was extraordinary, and he treated clients like gems. His techniques made hair seem alive.” Ruphert was picky about his clientele; he even famously declined to style Isabel Pantoja but embraced many famous figures, including Grace Kelly and Sara Montiel.
Anecdotes about Ruphert's unforgettable touch proliferate within the industry, illustrating his innovative style. He famously created the split hairstyle, originally conceived for Madonna, and had to improvise for Rocío Jurado’s wedding, showcasing his ability to turn challenges to art. “Prayer was involved to keep the rain at bay,” laughed Jordán, reminiscing about the pressure of those moments.
Yet beyond the sparkles and glam, Ruphert was shrouded by the secrets he kept. Jordán reflects, “He carries so many secrets. All those personalities he worked with, he respected their privacy; he took those stories to the grave.” That discretion endeared him to many clients, who preferred their lives kept under wraps. They knew they had not only found a stylist but also someone who understood the value of trust.
After his retirement, he made Valencia his home, investing deeply in the area. He cherished his time there, frequently relaying memories of the city influencing his artistic development since childhood. Valencia, to him, was not just where he lived; it was part of his soul. “The Virgin of los Desamparados surrounded his life there,” recounted those who visited him.
Despite the wealth of anecdotes and fame, Ruphert's final farewell left much to be desired, calling to question what he truly wanted. The family strife only compounded the heartache of loss, sparking discussions among relatives about the life he led versus the goodbye they gave him.
Was this quiet, understated farewell the fitting tribute for such a luminary of hair styling? The family members and friends yearning for grandeur but receiving minimalism through Carmen’s choices couldn’t shake the idea of what might have been. Their ruminations spoke volumes about the bond they shared with the stylist and how dearly they wished for him to be honored according to his light—bright, extravagant, and unforgettable.
Ruphert’s story is one intertwined with tragedy, artistry, and the very human dynamic of family and legacy. While he may now rest beneath the earth, the echoes of his artistry and charm remain vibrant among those whose lives he touched.