Sir Elton John leads Bob Mackie tributes after death of legendary Hollywood costume designer

EntertainmentLifestyle
15 Sep 2026 • 9:15 PM MYT
BANG Showbiz
BANG Showbiz

Your daily dose of star news, photos and videos

Sir Elton John leads Bob Mackie tributes after death of legendary Hollywood costume designer

Sir Elton John has hailed Bob Mackie as "one of the most legendary designers ever in Hollywood".
The Rocket Man hitmaker has paid tribute to the late fashion icon, who died on Monday (14.09.26) aged 87 from pneumonia, after wearing items like the crystal-covered Dodgers uniform for his gigs at the stadium in 1975.
He wrote on Instagram: "I’m so sad to hear of @bobmackie’s passing.
"Every time I put something on that Bob made, I felt very, very special. His costumes were works of art, and he will go down as one of the most legendary designers ever in Hollywood.
"Bob had extraordinary vision and the workmanship was unreal. I don’t think I ever wore a Bob Mackie outfit and had anything fall off – not a sequin or a rhinestone or anything. His clothes were made so beautifully.
"He loved glamour like I love glamour, but more than anything, we shared the same sense of humour and had so much fun together.
“In a sea of ego, he seemed to have none. One of the most courteous, incredible people I ever had the pleasure of working with."
Mackie is best known for his collaborations with Cher, while he dressed everyone from Tina Turner, Barbra Streisand and Diana Ross to Liza Minnelli, Sabrina Carpenter and Miley Cyrus.
Liza told PEOPLE magazine: "Bob began costuming me on my mother’s CBS series. Later, he dressed me and my dear Goldie Hawn for our television special [Goldie and Liza Together, 1980].
"And he even forgave me for making him create my wedding outfit for my last marriage to — what’s his name?
“Even with that misfire [her marriage to David Gest], we adored each other. Bob was Cher’s numero uno, and after [fashion designer] Halston passed away he always found time to help me.
"That was Bob. All that enormous talent, all that glamour and imagination, and somehow there was always room for somebody he loved.”
Liza noted that Mackie remained a "friend" over the years, while the 80-year-old pointed out the struggles of growing older.
She added: “Another person joining the choir is the hardest damn thing about living this long. I’m going to miss you, Bob. But heaven just got one hell of a costume department.”
Brooks Shields, who worked with him on Brenda Starr from 1989, hailed his "absolute genius and talent".
She wrote on Instagram: "I’m so grateful to have worn his dresses on many occasions, especially in Brenda Starr where he designed my costumes.
"Thank you for all the beauty you brought into the world, @bobmackie.”
Sabrina Carpenter wrote: "Terribly devastated. I feel so lucky to have met Bob.
"His one of kind creations have inspired and brought so much happiness and confidence to my world and they will continue to always x
"Mackie girl forever".
And stylist Law Roach, who often dressed Zendaya in Mackie's vintage looks, described him as his "fashion father and one of the greatest designers in the history of American fashion".
Mackie's team announced his passing on Monday (14.09.26) with a heartfelt statement on social media.
They said: "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."

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved