Genetically: Blond and red hair are both caused by different versions of the same gene, MC1R. So, they are very closely related genetically.
Visually: Blonde hair can range from very light to very dark, and red hair can also have a wide range of shades. Some blondes may have a very golden or strawberry-blond hue that could appear reddish, and some reds can be very light and almost look blond.
In conclusion:
* Genetically, blond and red hair are very closely related.
* Visually, some blondes and reds can appear similar, but there are also distinct differences.
Ultimately, whether you consider blond and red hair "close" depends on your specific criteria and interpretation.