In a world where creativity and artistry often come in many forms, Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi stand out for infusing life into one of the most iconic symbols of pop culture: Barbie. The couple, known for their jaw-dropping custom dolls, were tragically killed earlier this week in a head-on collision in Italy. Their deaths—alongside the elderly driver, 82-year-old Egidio Ceriano—have left the Barbie world mourning the loss of two of its most passionate creators.
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Their story reads like a glitter-filled dream. In a partnership that blurred the lines between professional collaboration and deeply-rooted affection, Paglino and Grossi’s creative flair found a home at Mattel, where they became known for their glamorous custom Barbie dolls—each a tribute to music legends, fashion icons, and pop culture titans. Their work on a Madonna-inspired doll remains one of their crowning achievements, not just for its stunning attention to detail, but because the proceeds raised money for charity—a combination of glam and generosity that defined their approach.
The couple’s company, Magia2000, became a canvas for their tribute to the greats. Cher, Victoria Beckham, Lady Gaga, Sarah Jessica Parker—you name the legend, and chances are, Paglino and Grossi turned them into a Barbie. Their pieces were more than just dolls; they were miniature works of art, collecting accolades from every corner of the globe. If you’re a true Barbie fan, you may even remember their Black Barbie collection, featured in the 2008 issue of Vogue.
But behind every couture gown and perfectly coiffed wig was more than just an artistic vision. The couple’s partnership wasn’t just a creative one—it was a life partnership, too. Paglino and Grossi worked side by side not only to make Barbie fiercer and fabulous but to bring joy to a community that has long loved the doll for its ability to reflect both the fantastical and the real. As life partners, their bond mirrored the inclusivity and celebration of individuality that Barbie has come to represent for so many, including the LGBTQ+ community, to which they proudly belonged.
Mattel, in an official statement, expressed its heartfelt sadness over their untimely deaths. “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 Magia2000,” the company wrote on Instagram. “As passionate and talented designers and lifelong collectors, their spirit and love for the brand turned every creation they touched into a masterpiece.”
The statement continued on to highlight their philanthropy, which helped elevate their legacy even further. “Their generosity was boundless, creating countless dolls to be auctioned to benefit charities close to fellow collectors’ hearts. Barbie is better because they loved the brand, and our beloved collector community is richer for having known them and sharing their passion. Barbie honors their memory with deep gratitude.”
What sets Paglino and Grossi apart from other designers is that they didn’t just create dolls—they created connections. Their work sparked joy, sparked conversations, and sparked donations to causes that mattered. It was an act of giving back that made their creations truly remarkable.
But perhaps it’s their unwavering dedication to Barbie—and by extension, to us, the collectors—that will leave the most lasting impression. They showed us that Barbie wasn’t just a doll. She was an icon of transformation, an opportunity for reinvention, and a space for creativity to thrive. Whether you were a child dressing her up in your bedroom or an adult collector showing off your prized possessions, their dolls felt like a part of something larger—a community united by passion and, yes, a love for all things fabulous.
Mario and Gianni’s untimely passing feels like a cruel twist of fate. But as the rainbow of Barbie’s wardrobes continues to grow and evolve, their legacy will undoubtedly endure. Every new Barbie created is, in some small way, a tribute to the couple’s craftsmanship and vision. And as we look at those carefully curated dolls, we will remember that the creators behind them lived and loved with a fierce devotion to the very world they helped shape.
Rest in peace, Mario and Gianni. You made Barbie’s world—and ours—so much more fabulous.
Source: Il Giornale Italia
They were dear friends for many years. I will miss their hugs and smiling faces. Their talent and creativity was beyond belief. The Barbie community has suffered a great loss. Thank you for your tribute to them.
This is a devastating loss to our Barbie family. Two of the kindest men I have ever known..