Barbie Designers Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi Killed in Tragic Wrong-Way Crash on Italian Highway
On Sunday, July 27, 2025, a wrong-way head-on collision occurred on Italy’s A4 Turin–Milan highway between the Novara Est and Marcallo Mesero toll booths. An 82‑year-old driver, Egidio Ceriani, reportedly entered the highway in the wrong direction—traveling for over four miles—before colliding with another vehicle at high speed.
Inside that vehicle were Mario Paglino (52) and Gianni Grossi (55) of Magia2000, along with banker Amodio Valerio Giurni (37) and his wife Silvia Moramarco (36). Mario, Gianni, Amodio, and Ceriani all died in the crash. Moramarco survived and was treated in Milan with serious injuries.
🧑🎨 About the Victims: Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi
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Mario Paglino (52) and Gianni Grossi (55) were not only romantic partners but also the creative force behind Magia2000, founded in 1999. They became renowned globally for art-inspired custom Barbie dolls and elevated fashion dolls into high art.
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Their portfolio included dolls modeled after celebrities like Madonna, Cher, Lady Gaga, and films such as Vogue’s 2008 “Black Barbie” issue. Their doll inspired by Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Klimt, Mondrian and other masters showcased their artistic vision.
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In recognition of their impact, they received awards like the Barbie Best Friend Award in 2016 and contributed as consultants to exhibitions such as “Barbie The Icon.”
💬 Reactions & Legacy
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Mattel issued a heartfelt tribute via Instagram:
“The Barbie team is heartbroken by the loss of Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi, two treasured creators and Mattel collaborators…”
“As passionate and talented designers … their spirit and love for the brand turned every creation they touched into a masterpiece.”
“Barbie is better because they loved the brand.”
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The Barbie and art-collecting communities worldwide mourned deeply, celebrating their generosity—including charity auctions—and acknowledging the vibrancy and warmth they added to every event.
📋 Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | Sunday, July 27, 2025 |
| Location | A4 Turin–Milan highway, between Novara Est & Marcallo Mesero, Lombardy, Italy |
| Wrong-Way Driver | Egidio Ceriani, 82, died |
| Victims in Paglino/Grossi Car | Mario Paglino (52), Gianni Grossi (55), Amodio Valerio Giurni (37) – deceased; Silvia Moramarco (36) – survived injured |
| Notable Roles | Founders of Magia2000; artistic collaborators with Mattel/Barbie |
| Impact | Created collectible Barbie art; led major conventions; partnered with Mattel |
💔 Final Thoughts
The untimely deaths of Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi mark a significant loss for the fashion doll and art couture community. Their innovations transformed Barbie into a platform for artistic expression, blending pop culture, fine art, and handmade craftsmanship. Through their creations and charitable contributions, they inspired countless collectors and designers globally.
Their tragic passing, alongside two others in the same crash caused by a catastrophic driving error, has galvanized tributes from fans, collaborators, and family—highlighting the profound void left in the creative world.