In a significant loss to the cosmetics industry and beyond, Leonard Lauder, a pioneering figure in the beauty world and a prominent businessman, has passed away at the age of 92. His passing was confirmed by Estee Lauder, the company his parents built, which has become a staple name in the cosmetics industry. Lauder’s contributions to the brand and the wider beauty sector are immeasurable, elevating it from a modest family business into a global empire.
Born in 1933, Leonard Lauder was not only the first-born son of Estée and Joseph Lauder but also the embodiment of their entrepreneurial spirit and vision. He took charge of the family business in 1958 at a pivotal time when the company’s annual sales were less than $1 million, a modest figure compared to the staggering $15.6 billion reported in recent years. His journey began after serving as a lieutenant in the United States Navy, and upon joining the company at the age of 25, he set out on a path that would lead to extensive innovation and expansion, particularly in Europe and Asia.
Lauder’s tenure as chief executive lasted for 17 years, during which he not only maintained the core values and premium quality that Estee Lauder stands for but also broadened its portfolio. He was instrumental in acquiring several influential brands, including Clinique, Bobbi Brown, and MAC, which helped the company capture a more diverse and expansive market. According to Forbes’ 2025 rich list, Lauder’s estimated fortune of $10.1 billion (£7.5 billion) is a testament to his business acumen and strategic foresight.
Stephane de La Faverie, the current chief executive of Estée Lauder Companies, praised Lauder as a “pioneer and icon” whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the beauty industry. He stated that Lauder’s vision and energy will continue to shape the company for generations to come. This sentiment resonates deeply within the global beauty community, reflecting the profound respect Lauder earned throughout his life and career.
Leonard Lauder passed away surrounded by his family on a Saturday, according to the statement released by the Estée Lauder team. His legacy extends beyond business; Lauder was known for his appreciation of art and philanthropy. In 2013, he made headlines by pledging his billion-dollar collection of Cubist artworks to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, showcasing his passion for the arts that would leave a lasting impact on cultural institutions.
Lauder also dedicated considerable efforts to cancer research, serving as the honorary chairman of the board of directors at the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. His advocacy in this realm solidified his commitment to making a difference beyond the confines of corporate successes. Many notable figures, including celebrities and prominent business leaders, have paid tribute to him following his passing. Elizabeth Hurley, who began her modeling career with Estee Lauder, fondly referred to him as her “American Daddy,” while other public figures like Steve Forbes and Mike Bloomberg noted the significant void left in the world by his death.
As tributes flood in, it is clear that Leonard Lauder’s legacy will endure, not only through the continued success of Estée Lauder Companies but also in the memories of those he mentored and the lives he impacted. His passing marks the end of an era in the cosmetics industry, but his pioneering spirit and contributions will undoubtedly influence future generations of entrepreneurs and beauty aficionados alike.