Barbie designers Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi die in Italy car crash, community pays emotional tribute

The Barbie community is grieving the loss of two artists and lifelong collectors, Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi, the creative duo behind Magia2000. Known for their doll designs and deep passion for the brand, the two left an indelible mark on the world of Barbie and the people who grew up with her. They died after an 82-year-old driver went the wrong way on Italy’s A4 Turin-Milan highway, according to Sky TG24, owned by Sky Italia, and the local news agency ANSA, as quoted by People.

Paglino, 52, Grossi, 55, and banker Amodio Valerio Giurni, 37, lost their lives in the crash, Ansa reported. Giurni's wife, Silvia Moramarco, 36, was injured and is currently receiving treatment at Niguarda Hospital in Milan, the news outlet added. The head-on collision occurred near the Marcallo-Mesero tollbooth in Lombardy, per the news agency.

Following news of the tragedy, Barbie shared a heartfelt tribute 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 Magia2000,” the post read.“As passionate and talented designers and lifelong collectors, their spirit and love for the brand turned every creation they touched into a masterpiece,” the tribute continued.

The message was accompanied by a photo of Mario and Gianni beaming under a glowing pink Barbie sign, an image that now feels especially poignant. “Beyond their remarkable talent, they shared an energy that lit up every space they entered.”

As founders of Magia2000, the pair launched the Italian Doll Convention in 2011, now the largest fashion doll event in Europe, celebrating the legacy of Barbie and all fashion dolls. According to their website, from 2015 onward, they served as consultants for the Barbie The Icon exhibition in Milan and Rome, sharing pieces from their personal Barbie collection.

Barbie’s tribute highlighted some of their greatest contributions: “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.”

The duo was also praised for the generosity, often creating one-of-a-kind dolls for charity auctions to support causes close to the collector community. “Barbie is better because they loved the brand, and our beloved collector community is richer for having known them and shared in their passion. Barbie honours their memory with deep gratitude.”

The caption concluded simply and powerfully,

“Barbie mourns the loss of two treasured artists whose work has forever shaped the world of dolls. Mario and Gianni, you will be missed. 🩷”