The world of interior design and social media mourns the loss of Jess Hurrell, a beloved London-based influencer who passed away at 42. Her vibrant spirit and creative flair touched thousands, leaving a legacy of inspiration and resilience.
A Life of Creativity and Positivity
Jess Hurrell, known for her blog Gold Is A Neutral, died on August 29, 2025, after an eight-year battle with cancer, her family announced via Instagram on August 30. Despite her diagnosis, Jess continued to share her passion for interior design, lifestyle, and family moments with her 94,000+ Instagram followers. Her posts, filled with chic home transformations and joyful family vacations, radiated positivity.
Originally from Yorkshire, Jess lived in London with her husband David, whom she married in 2011, and their two children, Rafferty and Nellie. Her family described her as having “infectious positive energy,” noting that most people were unaware of her illness due to her unwavering strength and zest for life.
From Journalism to Influencer Stardom
Before captivating audiences online, Jess carved a niche as a showbiz journalist, interviewing stars like Tom Hardy and working with outlets like Cosmopolitan, Stylist, and Grazia. About a decade ago, she shifted gears to focus on raising her children and launched her interiors blog, which gained traction for its modern, glamorous aesthetic. Her signature style blended high-end and high-street brands, earning collaborations with companies like John Lewis, Wayfair, and Sonos.
Her blog, Gold Is A Neutral, became a go-to for home styling tips, with Jess sharing renovation journeys and DIY makeovers. In 2017, she told The Pink House about persuading her husband for decor changes using a “softly, softly approach,” showcasing her charm and wit.
Tributes Pour In from Fans and Peers
The news of Jess’s passing sparked an outpouring of grief on social media. A peer influencer wrote on Instagram, “Jess, you were so loved in this community and will be so missed. Heartbroken by this news.” Another follower commented, “Your energy was infectious… some of my happiest days were spent with you.” Her husband David shared a poignant anniversary post, saying, “Can’t believe we didn’t make it to 14, but I’ve had the most incredible 25 years.”
On X, users echoed similar sentiments, with one calling her “one of the most inspirational people on Instagram” for giving others confidence to pursue their creative passions.
Impact on U.S. Audiences
While Jess was based in the UK, her influence reached American audiences through her universal design tips and relatable family content. U.S. followers admired her ability to blend luxury with accessibility, inspiring home makeovers on a budget. Her story resonates with the growing U.S. interior design community on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, where influencers drive trends in home decor. Her battle with cancer also highlights the importance of health awareness, a topic that connects deeply with American audiences facing similar challenges.
Economically, Jess’s collaborations with global brands like Marks & Spencer and Cox & Cox underscore the transatlantic appeal of her content, boosting interest in cross-border e-commerce for U.S. consumers seeking unique home products. Her passing may prompt discussions on supporting small creators and health advocacy in the U.S. influencer space.
Conclusion and Legacy
Jess Hurrell’s death at 42 marks a profound loss for her family, friends, and global community. Her ability to “skip, smile, and power through life” despite an eight-year cancer fight leaves an indelible mark. As fans continue to honor her memory with tributes and extra touches of gold, her blog and social media legacy will inspire aspiring designers and families worldwide.
Looking ahead, her story may encourage greater awareness of cancer’s impact and the power of positivity. For those touched by her work, Jess remains a shining example of living fully, even in the face of adversity. Visit her blog, Gold Is A Neutral, or her Instagram (@gold_is_a_neutral) to celebrate her remarkable contributions.