Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi, the couple famous for designing Barbie and Madonna dolls, have been remembered after their tragic deaths in a car crash over the weekend.
By Alastair James
The couple, who often collaborated with Mattel, died on Sunday (27 July) following a collision involving two vehicles in the Italian region of Lombardy.
The Independent reports that the driver of the other vehicle, 82-year-old Egidio Ceriano, also died. Amodio Valerio Giurni and his wife, Silvia Moramacro, who were in the same car as Paglino and Grossi, were hospitalised.
After news of the couple’s death emerged, Mattel posted a tribute to the pair on social media.
“The Barbie team is heartbroken by the loss of Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi, two treasured creators and Mattel collaborators who brought joy and artistry to the world of Barbie as [the couple’s company] Magia2000,” a statement read.
“As passionate and talented designers and lifelong collectors, their spirit and love for the brand turned every creation they touched into a masterpiece. Beyond their remarkable talent, they shared an energy that lit up every space they entered.”
