> At a Glance
> – David LaChappelle posts New Year tribute to Brittany Murphy
> – Remembers working with her from Clueless poster to later shoots
> – Murphy died at 32 from pneumonia on Dec. 20, 2009
> – Why it matters: Offers rare insight into Murphy’s personal struggles before her death
David LaChappelle is keeping Brittany Murphy’s legacy alive in 2026 with a heartfelt Instagram series reflecting on their collaborations and her transformation over the years.
The Early Days
LaChappelle first met Murphy while shooting the iconic Clueless poster. He described her as a “triple threat Liza Minnelli type girl” who could dance, sing, and act.
“She was a character face,” he wrote. “They molded her or she molded herself. With her Stage mother pushing pulling -who knows…”
The Transformation
Six years later, LaChappelle encountered a different Murphy during another shoot.
- She was severely underweight
- Had dyed blonde hair
- Featured a “new face”
- Her signature sparkle had vanished
LaChappelle recalled concerning moments during the shoot: “She kept going to the bathroom with her mother during the shoot. I don’t know what for… so many trips to the bathroom.”
Final Reflections
The photographer expressed deep sadness over Murphy’s death, saying he was “shattered” by the news.
“She was so kind always,” he wrote. “Sometimes, I ask myself ‘What’s it for? Wtf does anything mean?’ Without faith, life means nothing to me anymore.”
Key Takeaways
- LaChappelle worked with Murphy from her Clueless days until shortly before her death
- He witnessed her transformation from a “bouncy bubbly girl” to someone “fragile”
- Murphy died at 32 from pneumonia, with her husband Simon Monjack dying five months later from the same causes
The photographer’s New Year reflections offer a poignant look at Murphy’s journey and the impact she left on those who knew her.
