The cause of death of the legendary costume designer Bob Mackie has been revealed almost one month after his death at age 87.
The California-born fashion impresario crafted spellbinding gowns for A-listers alike, including Cher, Tina Turner and Madonna.
According to the death certificate, obtained by Us Weekly, Bob died due to a "blunt head trauma and a subarachnoid haemorrhage" after suffering a fall at a home in Palm Springs.
His cause of death was previously said to be pneumonia, according to a rep who spoke with multiple outlets.
Days before he passed away on September 14, Bob fell at design director Joseph McFate’s home and was injured. The fall led to a subarachnoid haemorrhage, which is described by the Cleveland Clinic as bleeding in the area between the brain and its protective tissue.
© Getty ImagesAfter his death certificate was published, a spokesperson for Bob said that he was staying in the guest house at the home of his longtime Design Director, Joe McFate, and that
healthcare professional was with him when he fell.
The spokesperson added: "He was also suffering from pneumonia both before and after his hospitalisation."
Hollywood mourns
Bob was affectionately know as "The Sultan of Sequins" or "The Rajah of Rhinestones" or "The Guru of Glitter," his career spanning decades, beginning with his work with Edith Head in the 1960s.
Speaking to H! Fashion back in October 2025, the ever-playful Mackie said of his design process: “Tune into the performer and you’ll see every little thing they do. You try to help them along. Say if they are in a straight play, you see how they sit, how they walk and how they do the love scene. You know what you have to involve - and you make the audience say ‘Oh yeah, that’s her. That’s the girl that I came to see.’”
© Getty Images for The Recording AUpon news of his death last month, a countless slew of stars who wore his looks paid tribute to his legendary talent.
Cher penned: "My dear Bob has gone up to heaven. Knowing him, he’s bringing Sequins, Beads,& his sketch pad. Good night, sweet Prince. Luv Me."
Miley Cyrus wrote: "You completed me @bobmackie. I love you." Meanwhile, Sabrina Carpenter replied: "I feel so lucky to have met Bob. His one of a kind creations have inspired and brought so much happiness and confidence to my world, and they will continue to always x Mackie girl forever."
