It’s sad news in the makeup world, as the co-founder of Benefit Cosmetics has died at age 71.
The brand announced on Instagram that Jean Ann Ford has passed away from cancer.
"It is with great sadness we share that our beloved co-founder, Jean Ann Ford, has passed away. Jean leaves behind a makeup dynasty, a legacy of creativity, and the belief that 'Laughter is the Best Cosmetic! Jean’s daughters @maggiefd and @anniefd, know that their mother’s sharp creativity and bad ass spirit will live on in Benefit customers around the world,” the brand posted in a caption on Instagram.
Tributes are flying in after the announcement, including from Benefit's head makeup artist, Lisa Potter-Dixon. "What an unbelievable woman," she wrote in an Instagram comment, "Along with Jane, she created the best beauty company in the world. No other has empowered as many woman as Benefit, the original company to create a 'feeling' in stead of just a 'look,' For that I will be forever grateful."
Jean and her twin sister Jane Ford established the company in 1976. They sold a controlling stake in Benefit Cosmetics to LVMH 20 years ago, before fully exiting the brand in 2012, WWD reports.
This article was originally written for BDNZ by Emma Gordon.
