Renowned American fashion and costume designer Bob Mackie, whose dazzling creations became synonymous with stars such as Cher, Tina Turner and Dolly Parton, has died aged 87.
Mackie’s death was announced on his official Instagram account on Monday, September 14, in a statement paying tribute to a career that spanned more than six decades across fashion, television, film and theatre.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today,” the statement read.
Known as the “Sultan of Sequins” for his glamorous and theatrical creations, Mackie became one of the entertainment industry’s most celebrated costume designers.
His designs were closely associated with some of the biggest stars in music and television, including Cher, Tina Turner, Dolly Parton and Elton John.
Mackie rose to prominence through television, particularly The Carol Burnett Show, for which he designed costumes throughout its 11-year run.
He also developed a long-running creative partnership with Cher, designing many of the singer’s most recognisable stage and television outfits.
Mackie received three Academy Award nominations for Best Costume Design for Lady Sings the Blues, Funny Lady and Pennies from Heaven.
He later won a Tony Award for his work on the Broadway musical The Cher Show.
His television work earned him nine Emmy Awards from more than 30 nominations. In 2002, he was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame, cementing his place among the most influential costume designers in American entertainment.
In a statement announcing his death, Mackie’s representatives said he had fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a fashion and costume designer.
“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,” the statement said.
It added that his “genius and extraordinary designs” would live on and continue to “bring beauty into this world”.
Tributes have since poured in from the entertainment and fashion industries, with many remembering Mackie for transforming costume design into an integral part of the identities and performances of the stars he dressed.