Reggie Wells, the renowned makeup artist who spent over three decades as Oprah Winfrey’s personal makeup artist, passed away at the age of 76. His death, attributed to natural causes, occurred in Baltimore County, where he had returned later in life to be closer to his aging father, as reported by The Baltimore Banner.
Wells, an Emmy winner, had an illustrious career that extended beyond his work with Oprah Winfrey. He collaborated with prominent figures such as former first lady Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Halle Berry, and various other celebrities. His niece, Kristina Conner, shared that Wells always radiated energy, humor, and an ability to see the best in people, noting his positive outlook on human potential.
Aside from his high-profile work as a celebrity makeup artist, Wells devoted time to offering makeovers to women in a retirement community in Baltimore’s Park Heights neighborhood. He would then arrange professional photoshoots for these women, contributing to their sense of beauty and self-esteem.
Wells’ significant contributions to “The Oprah Winfrey Show” earned him five Daytime Emmy nominations, with a victory in 1995. He accompanied Winfrey on her global travels, including visits to South Africa, where Winfrey inaugurated a school.
Oprah Winfrey fondly remembered Wells, stating that he was an artist who created beauty on any canvas with his palette of talent. She highlighted his ability to infuse humor into unexpected situations and recalled the joyous moments they shared during makeup sessions. Wells, known for affectionately addressing friends as ‘Mary,’ had a keen understanding of human behavior.
Born to John Henry Wells, a bus driver, and Ada Wells, a nurse, Reggie Wells was one of seven siblings. He graduated from Baltimore City College and the Maryland Institute College of Art before moving to New York City in the mid-1970s to pursue a career as a makeup artist.
Wells’ portfolio included collaborations with notable magazines like Glamour and Harper’s Bazaar. His work at Essence, where he crafted makeup looks for models and celebrities featured on the magazine’s covers, facilitated connections with luminaries like Oprah Winfrey. His clientele expanded to include Whitney Houston, Diahann Carroll, Aretha Franklin, and Joan Rivers.
In 1990, Wells joined Winfrey full-time in Chicago, solidifying their professional partnership. Recognizing the scarcity of makeup products catering to Black women’s skin tones, he ventured into creating his own makeup line. Additionally, he authored the book “Face Painting: African American Beauty Techniques from an Emmy-Winning Makeup Artist,” offering insights into beauty practices.
Reggie Wells’ impact extended beyond the realm of celebrity makeup; he left an indelible mark on the beauty industry, championing inclusivity and empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty.