Renowned Celebrity Costume Designer Bob Mackie Dies at Age 87

Famed costume and fashion designer Bob Mackie, whose theatrical creations helped define the looks of some of entertainment’s biggest stars, has died at the age of 87.

Mackie died Monday in Palm Springs, California, following a battle with pneumonia. News of his death was confirmed by his team through his official social media account.

“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today,” the Instagram post read. “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.”

With a career spanning more than six decades, Mackie earned recognition in Hollywood for his extravagant use of sequins, feathers, beads, and dramatic silhouettes.

His work helped shape the public images of performers including Cher, Carol Burnett, Diana Ross, Tina Turner, Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, and Dolly Parton.

Born March 24, 1939, in Monterey Park, California, Mackie developed an interest in drawing and fashion at an early age. He eventually moved his passion into costume work, learning from established designers before making a name for himself in television.

His breakthrough came with “The Carol Burnett Show,” where he served as costume designer throughout the program’s 11-year run. Mackie created thousands of costumes for the variety series, ranging from glamorous gowns to deliberately ridiculous outfits designed to enhance the show’s comedy.

Among his most famous creations was the curtain-inspired dress worn by Burnett during the show’s celebrated parody of “Gone With the Wind.” The costume, complete with a curtain rod across Burnett’s shoulders, became one of television comedy’s most recognizable images.

One of Mackie’s longest-standing clients was singer and actress Cher, for whom he designed numerous stage, television, and red-carpet outfits. His work helped establish her bold and daring fashion identity.

Beyond television, Mackie designed costumes for Broadway productions, Las Vegas performers, and films, along with fashion collections and outfits for Barbie dolls. In 2018, his work on the Broadway musical “The Cher Show” earned him a Tony Award for costume design.

Mackie also received nine Emmy Awards and three Academy Award nominations. In 2002, he was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.