Bob Mackie, the legendary American costume and fashion designer of Hollywood, known as the "Sultan of Sequins," has died at the age of 87.
Foreign news agencies reported that Bob Mackie, the legendary American costume designer nicknamed the "Sultan of Sequins," passed away on Monday, 14 Sep 2026, from pneumonia at age 87. Those close to him confirmed the sad news via Instagram.
Throughout his career, Mackie earned numerous accolades, including a Tony Award, nine Emmy Awards out of 32 nominations, induction into the Television Hall of Fame, and three Academy Award nominations.
Mackie was called the Sultan of Sequins due to his designs that emphasized luxury and grandeur, featuring feathers, beads, rhinestones, and his signature sexy, alluring style.
He created many iconic outfits for Cher, the famous American singer and actress, notably her controversial mohawk look showing her midriff at the 1986 Oscars, known as the "revenge dress" after Cher was snubbed for a nomination. He also designed some of her earliest midriff-baring TV costumes.
Mackie also designed a sequined Dodgers baseball jersey worn by Elton John during a 1975 concert. Sir Elton John paid tribute to the legendary designer's passing by posting online that Mackie’s costumes were "artwork."
His work continues to be worn by global artists today, including Pink, Miley Cyrus at the 2024 Grammy Awards, and Sabrina Carpenter at last year’s MTV VMAs.
Bob Mackie, born Robert Gordon Mackie in 1939 in Monterey Park, California, began his design career as a sketch artist for French-American costume designer Jean Louis.
One of his early projects was sketching the iconic dress for Marilyn Monroe when she sang "Happy Birthday Mr. President" to President John F. Kennedy in 1962.
Source:BBC