Famed fashion and costume designer Bob Mackie died Monday morning in a hospital in Palm Springs, California, from pneumonia, according to his team.
Mackie, widely celebrated for his flamboyant and glamorous designs, was 87. His career spanned decades, during which he became synonymous with iconic looks for stars such as Cher and Carol Burnett.
His team confirmed his passing with a statement shared via Instagram, noting, "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's career was marked by his distinctive showgirl style, earning him the nickname "Sultan of Sequins." He was particularly known for his long-standing collaboration with Cher, designing numerous memorable outfits for the singer, including a daring ensemble for the 1986 Oscars and a striking feathered headdress.
Beyond Cher, Mackie was a frequent collaborator with Carol Burnett, creating unforgettable costumes for "The Carol Burnett Show." His "curtain rod" Scarlett O’Hara dress from the "Went With the Wind!" sketch became a signature piece. Burnett recalled Mackie's designs as enhancing her characters and often providing the key to understanding them.
Mackie's extensive client list also included Barbra Streisand, Diana Ross, Liza Minnelli, Ann-Margret, Bette Midler, Madonna, Sharon Stone, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and concert costumes for Pink.
He was also involved in the iconic sketch for Marilyn Monroe's "Happy Birthday, Mr. President" dress in 1962, illustrating Jean Louis's design for the skin-tight garment.
Mackie's work earned him 32 Emmy nominations and three Oscar nominations for his contributions to films such as "Lady Sings the Blues," "Funny Lady," and "Pennies From Heaven." He also designed costumes for various theatrical productions, including "Lorelei," "On the Town," and "Putting It Together."
His influence extended to contemporary stars, with his designs inspiring and being worn by figures like Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, Anya Taylor-Joy, Miley Cyrus, and Zendaya. Taylor Swift also drew inspiration from Mackie's showgirl aesthetic for her 2025 album cover.
Mackie was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 2002. He believed in creating visually striking costumes that made performers "stand out" and ensured audiences were "surprised" and engaged.
He was married to showgirl Lulu Porter from 1960 to 1963. His son, Robert Gordon Mackie Jr., died of AIDS at age 35, and his longtime partner, costume designer Ray Aghayan, died in 2011.
Tributes poured in from clients and colleagues. Singer Pink remembered him as a "legend" and "absolute genius," while actress Brooke Shields also shared a tribute. Kristin Chenoweth called him a "legend," and designer Isaac Mizrahi expressed heartbreak over the loss.