Bob Mackie, Famed Fashion Designer, Dies at 87

Bob Mackie, the renowned fashion designer whose vibrant style defined Hollywood glamour for decades, has died at the age of 87. His passing occurred in Palm Springs, California, due to pneumonia, as confirmed by his publicist, Jenelle Hamilton.

A statement on his social media conveyed, “It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today. 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.”

Born in Monterey Park, a suburb of Los Angeles, Mackie was captivated by Hollywood’s glamour from an early age. As a child, he envisioned and sketched elaborate costumes for his mother and sister, participating actively in his high school’s costume and set design.

He furthered his education at Pasadena City College and the Chouinard Art Institute, where he majored in costume design. In 1966, he crafted a new look for actress Mitzi Gaynor, marking a significant moment in his career.

This collaboration was described as “a marriage made in heaven with dance, glamour, and comedy all in one package,” as per his biography.

Gaynor’s look piqued the interest of Carol Burnett, who brought Mackie on board to create costumes for “The Carol Burnett Show.” Their collaboration led to memorable outfits and a longstanding friendship, with Mackie designing iconic characters like Nora Desmond and Starlet O’Hara.

Bob Mackie’s television work extended to “The Sonny and Cher Show” after Cher, impressed by his work on Burnett’s show, requested his designs. Mackie created some of her most memorable looks, including signature gowns for red carpet events such as the Academy Awards.

In 1974, Mackie attended the Met Gala with Cher in one of the most famous ‘naked dresses,’ gaining further acclaim. Mackie described his design process in 2025, explaining, “My philosophy is watch what they do, how they work on stage, how they walk, how they sit. It is very important. You can’t just put a dress on anybody.”

Under the moniker “Designer to the Stars,” Mackie earned nine Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, and three Oscar nominations, notably for “Funny Lady” featuring Barbra Streisand. He entered the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences’ Hall of Fame in 2002.

Mackie designed for stars like Madonna, Diana Ross, and more, while his influence extended to contemporary fashion icons. His creations have been worn by celebrities such as Zendaya, Miley Cyrus, and Anya Taylor-Joy.

With roots in Broadway, Mackie dressed the stars of productions like “On the Town” and “Moon Over Buffalo,” receiving accolades for his work on “The Cher Show.” His ready-to-wear line and collaboration with QVC added to his multifaceted career.

In his personal life, Mackie married showgirl Lulu Porter in 1960, with whom he had a son, Robert Gordon Mackie Jr., who passed away at 35. His partner of many years, costume designer Ray Aghayan, died in 2011. Mackie is survived by his granddaughter Alyssa Townsend, granddaughters Kyla and Keira Townsend, and Porter.