Stella Tennant, the iconic UK supermodel, passed away suddenly at the age of 50. Her family confirmed this tragic news in a statement following her untimely demise at her residence in Duns, Scotland, near her family’s historic 16th-century estate.
The family issued the following statement: «It is with deep sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Stella Tennant on December 22, 2020. Stella was an extraordinary woman and a true inspiration to all who knew her. Her absence will be profoundly felt.»
The family has requested privacy during this difficult time, and details regarding a memorial service will be shared at a later date.
Stella Tennant, the granddaughter of Andrew Cavendish, the 11th Duke of Devonshire, held the distinction of being one of the most renowned models from aristocratic lineage in the past 25 years. Born in Scotland, Tennant’s grandmother was Deborah Mitford, one of the famous Mitford sisters.
Tennant’s foray into the world of fashion began in the early ’90s when fashion insiders, including fashion writer Plum Sykes and stylist Isabella Blow, were captivated by the combination of her aristocratic background and her rebellious pierced nose. Her career took flight when she was photographed by Steven Meisel for the cover of Italian Vogue, and she later secured an exclusive contract as the face of Chanel, under the creative direction of Karl Lagerfeld. Her association with Chanel continued almost until Lagerfeld’s passing two years ago.
She graced the campaigns of numerous renowned brands such as Giorgio Armani, Calvin Klein, Burberry, Hermès, and Chanel. Tennant brought a unique nonchalant elegance and a more intellectual, androgynous interpretation of beauty with her tall, boyish figure, black hair, and striking blue eyes.
In 2012, she was selected as one of the elite models to represent British fashion at the closing ceremony of the London Olympics. By 2014, she was among the 200 signatories of an open letter opposing Scottish independence during that year’s referendum.
A distant relative of Princess Diana, Stella Tennant was married to French photographer David Lasnet, and they had four children together. Recent reports suggest that she had separated from Lasnet after 21 years of marriage.
According to a statement from a Police Scotland spokesperson: «Police were called to a residence in Duns at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 22, following the sudden passing of a 50-year-old woman. Her family has been informed, and there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. A formal report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.»
