Bob Mackie Death Certificate Lists Fatal Head Injuries After Fall

Fashion designer Bob Mackie died at 87 after a fall on Sept. 11 led to a subarachnoid hemorrhage and blunt head trauma, according to his death certificate obtained by Us Weekly. The incident happened at Joseph McFate's home, where Mackie was staying, and he died Sept. 14 at Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, California.

The records listed the injuries as the immediate causes of death, while Mackie's representatives also confirmed he had pneumonia before and after hospitalization. The designer was cremated on Sept. 17 and his remains were scattered at sea off the coast of San Diego County in California, according to the certificate.

A representative for Mackie clarified the circumstances surrounding the fall and his medical condition in a statement to Us Weekly.

"For clarification, Mr. Mackie was staying in the guest house at the home of his longtime Design Director, Joe McFate," said Mackie's representative.

The representative also addressed the presence of medical support during the incident and Mackie's pneumonia diagnosis.

"A healthcare professional was with him when he fell. He was also suffering from pneumonia both before and after his hospitalization," said Mackie's representative.

Mackie's career lasted more than five decades, with work for The Carol Burnett Show and major performers including Cher, Diana Ross, Tina Turner and Elton John. Carol Burnett, who collaborated with him throughout the show's 11-season run, remembered his creative range after his death.

"Sadness doesn’t come close to how I feel. I loved him very much," said Carol Burnett.

Burnett highlighted Mackie's ability to work across both fashion and costume design in her tribute.

"As for his genius, there are fashion designers who don’t do costumes and there are costume designers who don’t do fashion. Bob did it all," said Carol Burnett.

She also emphasized the uniqueness of Mackie's contributions to entertainment and fashion.

"There was no one like him," said Carol Burnett.

Cher, who worked with Mackie for more than four decades, also paid tribute following his death through social media.

"My dear Bob has gone up to heaven," said Cher.

Her message referenced the designer's signature visual style and creative tools.

"Knowing him, he’s bringing Sequins, Beads, & his sketch pad. Good nite sweet Prince. Luv, Me," said Cher.