Legendary costume designer Bob Mackie, whose extravagant creations became closely associated with Cher and generations of entertainment stars, has died at 87.
Mackie’s death was announced through his Instagram account, where his team said he had fulfilled his lifelong ambition of becoming a fashion and costume designer.
The statement also said his designs would continue to bring beauty to the world.
Born in Monterey Park, California, Mackie entered the entertainment industry as a costume sketch artist in 1961.
His breakthrough came after Mitzi Gaynor hired him to design costumes for her Las Vegas revue. He later created costumes for her television specials, earning Emmy Awards for two of them.
His work on “The Carol Burnett Show” established another defining chapter. Mackie designed the program’s complete wardrobe for 11 seasons, with Carol Burnett later recalling to PEOPLE that he produced about 50 costumes a week for the show.
Mackie’s partnership with Cher became one of his most recognizable creative relationships. He designed costumes for “The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour” and continued working with the singer throughout her career.
His elaborate designs helped establish a visual style built around dramatic silhouettes, sequins, bold colors and theatrical presentation.
One of their most remembered collaborations came at the 1986 Academy Awards, when Cher appeared in a highly revealing black outfit topped by a large feathered headpiece.
Mackie later told PEOPLE that he initially questioned whether the outfit was appropriate for an awards ceremony, but Cher chose to wear it.
Mackie’s influence extended well beyond television. He created costumes for films including “Lady Sings the Blues,” “Funny Lady” and “Pennies From Heaven,” receiving three Oscar nominations.
His Broadway work eventually earned him a Tony Award for “The Cher Show” in 2018, for which he created more than 450 costumes.
He also entered the commercial fashion world, launching a ready to wear collection and collectible Barbie dolls in 1982.
However, Mackie said his strongest creative connection remained designing characters and visual identities for performers and productions. Mackie’s archive continued attracting younger stars decades after his major television successes.
Zendaya, Miley Cyrus and Anya Taylor-Joy were among celebrities who later wore pieces from his designs, while his work remained recognizable for its combination of glamour and theatricality.
Mackie was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2002. His career ultimately spanned television, film, Broadway and fashion, establishing him as one of the entertainment industry’s most influential costume designers.
