Barbie designers and partners Gianni Grossi, 48, and Mario Paglino, 52, were killed in a car accident in Italy along with two other people, according to reports.
Their SUV collided with an 82-year-old driver who was traveling on the wrong side of the highway with their car on Sunday.
The couple was driving to a lake with longtime friends Amodio Valerio Giurni and his wife Silvia Moramacro when they collided 31 kilometers west of Milan, near Mesero.
According to reports, Silvia survived the crash and was taken to the hospital in critical condition.
The 82-year-old driver who collided with the SUV was identified as Egidio Ceriani.
According to police, he made a U-turn after missing a toll booth and was driving on the wrong side of the highway for about 6 kilometers at speeds exceeding 128 kph.
Paglino was a fashion designer, and Grossi was a graphic art designer.
The two, who were also partners had founded the Magia2000 in 1999. Their company specialised in making custom Barbie dolls that were inspired by pop culture and modern art. The designers were renowned among collectors and fans.
Some of their dolls were inspired by icons like Maddona, Cher, Victoria Beckham, Lady Gaga and Sara Jessica Parker.
They were also the first non-American artist duo to design a souvenir Barbie doll in 2006.
According to the Magia2000 website, the two had also received the Barbie Best Friend Award from iconic designer, Carol Spencer.
Mattel, the parent company of Barbie, paid tribute to the designers on social media, calling them “two treasured artists whose work has forever shaped the world of dolls” in a statement.
“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 Magia 2000,” the tribute 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,” the post read.
“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.”
