Ava Gillies, the talented British hair and makeup artist known for her work on some of the biggest film and television productions including Barbie, Bridgerton, The Crown, Wonder Woman 1984 and Belfast, has died at the age of 26 following a road accident in North Yorkshire.
The news of Gillies’ death has left the entertainment industry mourning the loss of a rising creative talent whose career was gaining momentum. Colleagues, friends and members of the film fraternity have shared tributes, remembering her contribution to the world of cinema and television.
How Did Ava Gillies Die?
According to North Yorkshire Police, Ava Gillies died on July 29 after a road collision near Wrelton, North Yorkshire. The 26-year-old was driving a white Volkswagen Polo when it collided with a black Audi A4 on a country road at around 1:30 am. She was pronounced dead at the scene despite emergency services responding to the crash.
The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief from those who worked with Gillies, with many remembering her as a passionate and hardworking professional.
Who Was Ava Gillies?
Ava Gillies was a British hair and makeup artist who built a promising career in the film and television industry over the last five years.
While she worked behind the camera, her artistry was part of several globally recognised productions. Her credits included Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster film Barbie, Kenneth Branagh’s Oscar-winning Belfast and Wonder Woman 1984. She also worked on popular television shows including Netflix’s Bridgerton, The Crown and Band of Spies.
Her work earned her recognition within the entertainment industry, and in 2023, she was selected for BAFTA Connect, a programme designed to support emerging talent in the screen industries through mentoring, networking and career opportunities.
Ava Gillies’ Career And Achievements
Gillies developed her expertise in hair and makeup for film and television, working across feature films, TV dramas, commercials and short films.
Her inclusion in projects like Barbie and Bridgerton highlighted her growing reputation as a creative professional capable of contributing to large-scale productions. Before her death, Gillies was considered one of the emerging talents in Britain’s screen industry.
Her family also highlighted her BAFTA Connect membership while paying tribute to her achievements, describing it as part of her journey from a talented artist to a promising designer in the industry.
Ava Gillies’ Family Pays Emotional Tribute
Following her death, Gillies’ family released a heartfelt statement through North Yorkshire Police, remembering her as their “beautiful daughter, sister and granddaughter.”
The family praised her personality, talent and passion for her work, saying they would always remember her wit, charm, confidence and excellence in hair and makeup for film and television.
They also reflected on everything she achieved before turning 27, saying she had filled her life with education, travel and professional success. The family added that messages of love and respect from people in the film industry had brought them comfort during the difficult time.
Ava Gillies’ Legacy
Although Ava Gillies worked behind the scenes, her contribution was part of films and shows watched by audiences worldwide. From the colourful world of Barbie to the period drama aesthetics of Bridgerton and The Crown, her work helped shape the visual storytelling of major productions.
