10 / 10
Bob Mackie dies at 87
Bob Mackie, whose costumes helped define the public images of major performers, has died aged 87.
What happened
Bob Mackie, the US fashion and costume designer whose work shaped stage, television and red-carpet looks for performers including Cher and Carol Burnett, died Monday in Palm Springs, California, aged 87. His team announced the death on social media. His career lasted more than six decades and included The Carol Burnett Show.
Numbers
- 87 years oldMackie’s age at death
- Over 60 yearsCareer in fashion and costume
- 9 Emmy AwardsTelevision awards won during career
- 3 Oscar nominationsAcademy Award nominations received
Questions
- Where did Mackie begin his career?
- He began as a sketch artist for film costume designers before designing costumes for Mitzi Gaynor’s Las Vegas revue in the 1960s.
- What made Cher a key collaborator?
- Mackie told the BBC that Cher looked unlike other entertainers and could wear anything, which helped make their partnership distinctive.
- How did his designs remain visible?
- Zendaya wore a Mackie gown to honor Cher at a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, and Taylor Swift used his originals.
- What theatre award did he receive?
- His work on The Cher Show won a Tony Award, alongside television honors and Oscar nominations earned across his career.
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
The catch
Mackie’s publicist identified pneumonia as the cause, but coverage gives no further detail about his illness or final days.
Cause named by his publicist.