Milan: Condolences are pouring in from across the world after the deaths of renowned Barbie designers Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi in a car crash in Italy on July 27. Paglino and Grossi were long-time partners and founded Magia2000 in 1999. The company specialised in custom Barbie dolls inspired by pop culture and modern art.
The accident reportedly occurred when an 82-year-old man drove his car in the wrong direction on the A4 Turin-Milan highway, resulting in a head-on collision that claimed their lives.
Italian media reports said that Paglino (52), Grossi (55) and banker Amodio Valerio Giurni (37) died in the crash, while another person – the wife of one of the victims – was hospitalised with serious injuries. The 82-year-old man who was driving on the wrong side, was also killed. He has been identified as Egidio Ceriano. It is believed that he travelled over four miles (6.4 km) in the wrong lane on the highway before causing the fatal crash.
The Barbie team mourned the deaths and posted that it mourned ‘the loss of two treasured artists whose work has forever shaped the world of dolls’. “Mario and Gianni, you will be missed,” the team posted on Instagram.
“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 Magnia2000. 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,” the brand stated.
“Whether leading the Italian Doll Convention in Milan or showcasing their talents and love for Barbie at doll shows all over the world, their presence brought warmth, laughter, and a sense of belonging,” Barbie added.
Their designs were highly sought after by collectors and fans worldwide. They designed Barbie dolls, including tributes to celebrities like Madonna, Cher, Victoria Beckham, Lady Gaga, and Sarah Jessica Parker. Paglino and Grossi received the Barbie Best Friend Award in 2016 for their outstanding contributions to the brand.
