Home / Arts and Entertainment / Bob Mackie, 'Sultan of Sequins,' Dies at 87
Bob Mackie, 'Sultan of Sequins,' Dies at 87
14 Sep
Summary
- Costume designer Bob Mackie, known as the 'Sultan of Sequins,' has died at 87.
- He created spectacular outfits for stars like Cher, Diana Ross, and Carol Burnett.
- Mackie won nine Emmys and earned three Oscar nominations during his career.
Renowned costume designer Bob Mackie, affectionately known as the "Sultan of Sequins," died Monday at the age of 87. His prolific career, spanning five decades, was marked by spectacular, dazzling creations for entertainment's biggest stars.
Mackie's genius was instrumental in shaping the iconic looks of performers like Cher, Diana Ross, and Carol Burnett. He earned nine Emmy Awards and received three Academy Award nominations for his film costume work, including for "Funny Lady" and "Lady Sings the Blues."
His designs graced television variety shows for years, most notably for "The Carol Burnett Show," where he created an estimated 17,000 pieces. His unforgettable 'curtain rod' Scarlett O'Hara dress for a Burnett sketch remains a comedic highlight.
Mackie's most memorable creations were often for Cher, including her show-stopping 1986 Academy Awards ensemble featuring a feathered Mohawk headdress. He also designed the iconic flesh-colored beaded dress Marilyn Monroe wore when singing to President John F. Kennedy in 1962.
Beyond celebrities, Mackie also designed for theatrical productions and even a collection of Barbie dolls. He was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 2002, cementing his legacy as a transformative figure in costume design.
