Bob Mackie, the 'Sultan of Sequins' Who Dressed Cher and Barbie, Dies at 87
Bob Mackie, the legendary costume and fashion designer known for his extravagant, sequined creations for stars like Cher, Carol Burnett, and Tina Turner, has died at age 87. Born in Monterey Park, California, Mackie was nicknamed the 'Sultan of Sequins' for his flamboyant, body-baring designs that blurred the line between fashion and performance. He won nine Emmy Awards, received three Oscar nominations, and was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame. His work extended beyond the stage to include a Barbie doll line and modern red carpet appearances by younger stars. Mackie died in Palm Springs, California, on Monday, leaving behind a legacy of theatrical glamour that influenced generations of designers.
Key points
- Bob Mackie died at age 87 in Palm Springs, California, on Monday, according to his Instagram account.
- He was known as the 'Sultan of Sequins' for his glittering, beaded, and often revealing costumes for performers like Cher, Carol Burnett, and Tina Turner.
- Mackie won nine Emmy Awards, received three Oscar nominations, and was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 2002.
- He designed the iconic 1974 Met Gala look for Cher, which featured sheer illusion and feathers, and created a Barbie doll line in 1982.
- His designs influenced modern red carpet fashion, with stars like Miley Cyrus and Zendaya wearing archival pieces.
Background
Mackie's career began in the 1960s as a sketch artist for costume designer Jean Louis. He gained prominence through his work on 'The Carol Burnett Show,' where he created over 17,000 costumes during its 11-year run. His collaboration with Cher in the 1970s and 1980s defined his style, including the controversial 1986 Oscars outfit. He also received a Tony Award for 'The Cher Show' and a lifetime achievement award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America.
How outlets are covering it
Variety highlights Mackie's personal relationships with stars, noting his partnership with life partner Ray Aghayan and his son Robin, who died of AIDS-related causes in 1994. The New York Times emphasizes his cultural impact, quoting author Frank DeCaro on Mackie's unique place in American fashion. CNN focuses on his influence on modern red carpet trends, citing Fern Mallis of the CFDA, and notes his work with younger stars like Miley Cyrus. NBC News provides a biographical overview, detailing his early career and Emmy wins. All sources agree on his death at 87 and his status as a pioneer in costume design.
Why it matters
Mackie's death marks the end of an era in Hollywood costume design. His work redefined the relationship between fashion and performance, creating iconic looks that transcended their time. His influence on red carpet fashion and his collaboration with Barbie helped diversify the doll's image. His legacy continues through archival pieces worn by modern stars and his impact on theatrical costume design.
What to watch
The fashion and entertainment industries are expected to honor Mackie's legacy through tributes and retrospectives. His designs may be featured in exhibitions, such as the Academy Museum's upcoming display of his 1986 Oscars outfit for Cher. His influence on modern designers and red carpet trends will likely be acknowledged in fashion circles.
- Bob Mackie, Renowned Fashion Designer to Cher, Tina Turner, Carol Burnett and More, Dies at 87 Variety
- Bob Mackie, Designer Who Bedazzled Carol Burnett and Cher, Dies at 87 The New York Times
- Fashion and costume designer Bob Mackie, who helped stars sparkle, dies age 87 CNN
- Bob Mackie, designer who dressed Marilyn Monroe, Elton John and Cher, dies at 87 NPR
- Bob Mackie, legendary designer who dressed Cher and Diana Ross, dies at 87 NBC News
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