06/13/2026
With his longtime best friend Craig Tapella by his side, our friend and colleague Terry Baliel passed away on the morning of April 25, 2026.
Terry was a member of Local 706 and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. We would like to recognize his brilliant career as a legendary hairstylist in ALL aspects.
He started his journey in the Bay Area doing Opera, Ballet, Theater, Television, and Feature Films with a level of talent and knowledge that was unsurpassed. In 1987, he became a member of Local 706 and made the move to Los Angeles. He went on to be nominated many times and received 3 EMMY AWARDS, several GUILD AWARDS, and deservedly THE MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLIST LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD. BRAVO!
Throughout his career, Terry also worked alongside A-list hairstylists Jan Alexander (THE PRESTIGE, INCEPTION), Carol Pershing (DEADWOOD), Gail Ryan (THE GRINCH THAT STOLE CHRISTMAS), and Carol O’Connell (JERSEY BOYS), to name a few. Some will recall seeing his beautiful work on Helena Bonham Carter for ALICE IN WONDERLAND on the cover of THE ARTISAN. WOW!
Many of us had the good fortune to work on Terry’s team, and we felt honored to be asked. He made hairstyling look effortless as his hands would glide, creating a masterpiece.
His quick wit and hilarious sarcasm inspired you to do your best work. He was a mentor to many. It has often been said by some that when they found themselves perplexed by a difficult hair design, they would consider... What would Terry do? Undoubtedly, his lessons and techniques will be passed on throughout generations.
Not only hairstyling, but EVERYTHING Terry did was beautiful, be it his cooking, gardening, or home decor, and especially Christmas!
Let’s share our “Tales of Terry,” and there are many! We are grateful for all he brought to each of us as Hairstylists and Makeup Artists, and to our industry. A Legend!
In remembrance of a good life well-lived and all the laughter too! May our dear brother Rest In Peace.