Graham Nation, a renowned stylist to the stars and former boyfriend of Sheridan Smith, has tragically passed away at the age of 39. The L.A. County Department of Medical Examiner confirmed that Graham, whose real name was Graham Cheek, died at a gym in Los Angeles on Friday, February 14, reports the Mirror.
The case is currently pending further investigation. During his illustrious career, Graham styled numerous high-profile celebrities including Demi Moore, Jared Leo, Venus Williams and Catherine O’Hara.
He briefly dated Two Pints of Lager and Packet of Crisps star Sheridan Smith in 2017, with the actress once referring to him as her ‘dream man. ‘ Following their split, a source claimed that the Cilla actress was left heartbroken after Graham moved out of her London home.
Prior to his death, Graham had shared his excitement about styling Catherine O’Hara‘s hair for her Michelob Ultra Super Bowl advert on Instagram.
Following his tragic passing, The Wall Group, the company who represented him, paid a heartfelt tribute via Behind The Chair. They said: “Graham was a one-of-a-kind soul who impacted every single person he met. We are honoured to have been part of his journey and to have helped him share his artistry with the world. Our hearts are broken and we will miss him dearly.”
Social media was flooded with condolences and memories. On Instagram Stories, Erin Foster wrote: “I can not stop thinking about and missing @grahamnation. He left behind a 6 month old baby. We shared diapers and sleep training tips.”
She also expressed deep concern for his partner, Tonya Brewer, stating: “I can’t stop thinking about his partner Tonya and what she must be going through. Losing her partner and now raising their son alone.”
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Graham’s peer, stylist Divinity Ray, provided a poignant reflection as well: “10 years of knowing you, from cutting hair in our hometown to witnessing you take LA by storm. You were never too busy to be thoughtful. You were never too big to smile at everyone. You were the most incomprehensible artist. Enough talent to have the biggest ego but instead so humble and sweet.”
Graham was famed not only among celebrities but also revered as an educator and ambassador for brands like SexyHair and Fekkai. His creative genius graced the pages of prestigious magazines such as British Vogue, W, Elle, Marie Claire, InStyle and Wonderland.
He is survived by his partner Tonya Brewer and their young son Romeo, just six months old.
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