Bob Mackie, the renowned costume designer known for creating dazzling outfits for some of the biggest names in entertainment, passed away on 14th September at the age of 87. His death was attributed to pneumonia, as confirmed by a representative in a statement to PEOPLE. Mackie breathed his last at around 10:40 a.m. in Palm Springs, California.
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In a heartfelt message on his official Instagram account, Mackie’s team expressed their sorrow, stating, “It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today. He lived his 87 years to the fullest, fulfilling his dream of being a Fashion and Costume Designer, which is all he ever wanted to do. His genius and extraordinary designs will live on forever, continuing to bring beauty into this world.”
Mackie established himself as one of Hollywood’s most distinguished costume designers, carving a niche through his iconic partnership with Cher. His portfolio is replete with designs created for a myriad of stars, including Carol Burnett, Tina Turner, Barbra Streisand, Diana Ross, Liza Minnelli, Ann-Margret, and Bette Midler. In recent years, he even worked with contemporary celebrities like Miley Cyrus and Sabrina Carpenter.
Following the announcement of Mackie’s passing, a wave of tributes flooded his Instagram page. Model Karen Elson reflected on their past interaction at the Met Gala, stating, “Rest in peace. It was such a pleasure to sit next to you at the Met Gala many years ago. Thank you for the magic you graced us with.” Other notable figures, including Coco Rocha and actress Alyssa Milano, also paid their respects, with Milano stating, “He was one of the best that ever was. And I’m proud to have a collection of his dresses.”
Born in 1939 in a suburb of Los Angeles, Mackie’s passion for design was evident from a young age. He once recounted a Christmas when he received a catcher’s mitt, which didn’t align with his aspirations, but his aunt gifted him a jewellery-making kit that ignited his creative flair. This early exposure to artistic pursuits ultimately set him on a path to becoming a celebrated designer.
One of Mackie’s first major assignments came as a costumer for “The Carol Burnett Show,” which aired from 1967 to 1978. Burnett herself praised him as “the best,” highlighting his creative output of up to 50 costumes each week for the show. Mackie regarded the series as “the perfect show,” reflecting on the creative freedom it provided him.
His historic collaboration with Cher began on the set of that variety show and blossomed into a significant partnership. Mackie’s designs for Cher not only made fashion history but also revolutionised the industry itself. He once remarked on this impact, saying, “Nobody was allowed to even design a halter dress until Cher started wearing them on Sonny & Cher in the ‘70s.”
In his designs, Mackie demonstrated an understanding of both theatrical and wearable fashion, often employing eye-catching embellishments and bold silhouettes that defined an era. His work encouraged a new acceptance of bold fashion choices, influencing countless designers and celebrities who followed in his footsteps.
In his later years, Mackie remained involved in the fashion industry, until the end of his life shaping the wardrobes of leading ladies and younger stars alike. He leaves behind a legacy of creativity and glamour that will continue to inspire future generations.
Mackie is survived by his granddaughter Alyssa Townsend, along with her daughters Kyla and Keira Townsend, as well as his former wife, Lulu Porter. His contributions to the world of fashion and entertainment will be remembered as iconic and transformative, ensuring his place in the annals of design history.