Legendary Costume Designer Bob Mackie Dies at 87 in Palm Springs

PALM SPRINGS, California — Legendary American fashion and costume designer Robert Gordon "Bob" Mackie passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026, in Palm Springs, California, at the age of 87. Born in Monterey Park, California, on March 24, 1939, Mackie studied advertising illustration at Pasadena City College and fashion design at the Chouinard Art Institute before entering the Hollywood entertainment industry under mentors Ray Aghayan and Edith Head. Over a career spanning more than five decades, Mackie became internationally recognized for his theatrical glamour, intricate beadwork, and iconic collaborations across television, film, Broadway, and pop culture—most notably designing for The Carol Burnett Show, Cher, Elton John, Diana Ross, Tina Turner, and high-fashion Barbie collections.

Representatives from Mackie’s team and his official publicist confirmed that he died from pneumonia. His death was formally announced through his official Instagram account on September 14, noting that he lived his 87 years fulfilling his lifelong dream of being a fashion and costume designer. Throughout his distinguished career, Mackie earned nine Emmy Awards from over 30 nominations, three Academy Award nominations for Best Costume Design (Lady Sings the Blues, Funny Lady, and Pennies from Heaven), a 2019 Tony Award for The Cher Show, and a 2002 induction into the Television Academy Hall of Fame.