Cesare Ragazzi, “Hair Emperor” adn TV Icon, Dies at 83
Cesare Ragazzi, the charismatic Italian entrepreneur who became a household name through his memorable television commercials in the 1980s, passed away at the age of 83 after a battle with illness.His innovative approach to hair replacement,coupled with his engaging personality,cemented his place in advertising history and the hearts of many.
Ragazzi, born in Bazzano, Italy, in 1941, wasn’t just a businessman; he was a brand. He was among the first to use his own image to sell his product – a revolutionary, non-invasive hair replacement system. His company,”The Hair Emperor,” expanded to numerous centers across Italy and internationally,fueled by his instantly recognizable television ads. “Hello, I’m Cesare Ragazzi,” he’d begin, his smile and thick head of hair a stark contrast to the baldness he addressed. “And I’m running my hand through my hair. what’s strange? But I’m bald.”
His commercials became a cultural phenomenon, synonymous with reclaiming confidence after hair loss. His “CNC – Natural Contact Hair” technology, described as an integration of natural hair fixed with a hypoallergenic medical adhesive, offered a solution that resonated with many. His celebrity clientele included the renowned Italian singer Lucio Dalla, a friend Ragazzi had known since his youth when both were involved in music.
Beyond his business success, Ragazzi was a passionate Bologna football fan and Formula 1 enthusiast. Just days before his passing, he shared a cheerful holiday greeting on social media. Though, his career wasn’t without its challenges.In 2017, he was sentenced to two years and eight months for fraudulent bankruptcy related to his company’s collapse in 2009. The charges involved allegations of asset mismanagement and misappropriation of funds between 2002 and 2008, resulting in approximately $1.7 million in debt.
His funeral will be held Monday at 10 a.m. at the Santo Stefano church in Bazzano, where he resided.
Cesare Ragazzi, an Italian entrepreneur known for his memorable hair replacement television commercials in the 1980s, died at the age of 83. [1]
He was known as the “Hair emperor” and his company, “The Hair Emperor,” expanded to numerous centers across Italy and internationally.[1] Ragazzi’s innovative non-invasive hair replacement system and engaging personality made his commercials a cultural phenomenon.[1]
Beyond his business success, Ragazzi was a passionate Bologna football fan and Formula 1 enthusiast. [1] He was also a friend of renowned Italian singer Lucio Dalla since their youth. [1]
His career wasn’t without challenges, though, as he was sentenced to two years and eight months for fraudulent bankruptcy in 2017. [1]
Cesare Ragazzi’s funeral will be held Monday at 10 a.m. at the Santo Stefano church in Bazzano. [1]
