Hollywood is mourning the loss of legendary costume designer Bob Mackie. Longtime collaborators and friends, including Liza Minnelli and Ann-Margret, pay tribute to the man whose dazzling designs helped define generations of entertainment.
Mackie died on Monday, 14 September 2026 in Palm Springs, California, at the age of 87. His representative confirmed to PEOPLE that he died of pneumonia.
His team announced his death on Instagram, describing him as a designer who had fulfilled his lifelong dream and saying that his extraordinary creations would continue to inspire future generations.
A Tribute From Liza Minnelli
Among the most personal tributes came from Minnelli, whose professional relationship with Mackie stretched back to her appearances on The Judy Garland Show, hosted by her mother, Judy Garland.
Speaking to PEOPLE, Minnelli remembered Mackie as both an exceptional designer and a close friend. She recalled how he began creating costumes for her during the CBS series, then later dressed her and Goldie Hawn for their 1980 television special, Goldie and Liza Together.
Minnelli also joked about Mackie creating her wedding outfit for her final marriage, referencing her relationship with David Gest. Beneath the humour, however, was a clear appreciation for the designer's extraordinary craftsmanship.
She praised the quality of his work, recalling that she could perform in his costumes without worrying about sequins or rhinestones falling away. Minnelli also highlighted their shared love of glamour and sense of humour. She described Mackie as remarkably humble in an industry often associated with enormous egos.
Not Just a Celebrated Designer
Ann-Margret similarly remembered Mackie not simply as a celebrated designer, but as a friend of several decades.
The Bye Bye Birdie star told PEOPLE that Mackie was one of the most brilliant and generous talents she had known. She also praised the way his designs made the women he dressed feel glamorous and recognised.
Mackie's work with Ann-Margret included a 1978 bodysuit created for Rockette: A Holiday Tribute to Radio City Music Hall, as well as a jumpsuit featured on the cover of her 1980 album.
Their memories form part of a much wider outpouring of grief from the entertainment and fashion worlds.
Five Decades in Showbusiness
Mackie spent more than five decades creating costumes for some of the biggest names in showbusiness. His clients included Cher, Carol Burnett, Diana Ross, Tina Turner, Elton John and Dolly Parton. He was particularly associated with elaborate costumes featuring sequins, rhinestones and glitter, earning him a reputation for turning stage clothing into unforgettable pieces of pop-culture history.
His career also brought major industry recognition. Mackie received 32 Emmy nominations and won nine, while his work in film earned three Academy Award nominations. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2002 and received a Tony Award for his work on The Cher Show.
Other stars, including Elton John, Brooke Shields and stylist Law Roach, have also paid tribute to Mackie's influence.
For Minnelli and Ann-Margret, however, his legacy is particularly personal. Their tributes show that behind the rhinestones and spectacular costumes was a designer remembered not only for his extraordinary talent, but also for the friendships he built throughout a remarkable career.
Bob Mackie's influence on Hollywood fashion may be impossible to replicate, but his most memorable creations and the stars who brought them to life ensure his artistic legacy will endure.
