In the glittering world of Hollywood, few people get close enough to see the real person behind the legend. Celebrity hairstylist Joseph Paris was one of those rare individuals who developed a professional connection and friendship with one of music’s greatest icons – Frank Sinatra. In his debut book “Hairman of the Board,” Paris offers his perspective on the man behind the voice that defined an era.
The memoir has already caught the attention of industry heavyweights, including “Boardwalk Empire” creator Terence Winter, who described it as “an intimate, poignant peek behind the curtain at a global superstar.” Winter also commented that Paris’s own story “could be a movie itself,” highlighting the engaging narrative within the book.
Paris recalls his relationship with Frank Sinatra, which began professionally on the set of The First Deadly Sin. It was there that Paris styled Sinatra’s hair for the very first time—a moment that marked the start of a professional bond that Paris remembers fondly. “He became a client, which only strengthened our friendship,” Paris says. His role extended beyond hairstyling, often involving helping Sinatra refine his overall style and demeanor. “I had his back throughout the entire movie,” he says.
Photo Courtesy: Frank Sinatra and Joseph Paris
Paris’s influence touched the lives of other notable figures like Barbra Streisand and even Burt Reynolds—albeit indirectly. It was Reynolds who helped bring attention to Paris’s work. One of Paris’s hairpieces was featured in the 1981 film Sharky’s Machine, starring Reynolds. “My friend Gabe Borgo approached me to create the piece for the film,” Paris shares. Reynolds was impressed by the craftsmanship and later named a character after Paris in his 1989 film Physical Evidence. “Clients started telling me about Detective Joe Paris in the movie,” Paris recalls with a smile. “It became a great conversation starter in my salon and a fun piece of trivia.”
Paris’s skilled hands played a role in shaping the images of many stars during entertainment’s golden age. His journey from the streets of Brooklyn to Frank Sinatra’s hairstylist reflects his talent and dedication to his craft.
“Hairman of the Board” reveals intimate moments that showcase Sinatra’s lesser-known sides. Paris recounts a particularly touching incident when Sinatra insisted on singing “Happy Birthday” to Paris’s mother over the phone, bringing her to tears of joy. Another memorable anecdote involves Sinatra sending his private plane to pick up Paris for an emergency styling session before a major performance – a testament to the trust and reliance Ol’ Blue Eyes placed in his personal stylist.
Photo Courtesy: Michele Paris / Steve Buscemi & Joseph Paris
The stories in “Hairman of the Board” aren’t just about hairstyling – they’re about trust, friendship, and the human side of fame. Through Paris’s eyes, readers gain access to a more nuanced, human portrait of not just Sinatra, but an entire era of entertainment history. For Sinatra aficionados and newcomers alike, this insider’s account provides an invaluable perspective on the man who helped define American entertainment.
“Hairman of the Board: Joseph Paris Recalls his Years with Frank Sinatra”
It is available now on Amazon, offering readers a glimpse into these personal and untold stories.
Published by Anne C.
