Beloved doll artists and real-life partners killed in a wrong-way collision on Turin-Milan highway
📰 Tragic End to Iconic Duo’s Journey
Barbie doll designers Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi, renowned for their creative brilliance and deep love for the Barbie universe, tragically lost their lives in a head-on car crash in Italy on Sunday. The accident occurred when an 82-year-old driver went the wrong way on the A4 Turin-Milan highway, leading to a fatal collision.
🚗 Crash Details and Victims
- The elderly driver, Egidio Ceriano, reportedly missed a toll booth, made a dangerous U-turn, and drove against traffic for over 4 miles at 80 mph.
- The impact killed Ceriano, Paglino, Grossi, and another passenger, Amodio Valerio Giurni, a bank employee.
- Silvia Moramacro, Giurni’s wife, survived but is in critical condition at the hospital.
- The couple were believed to be heading to the lake for a day trip.
🎨 Legacy of Creativity and Passion
In a heartfelt Instagram tribute, Barbie’s official account honored the late artists:
“Two treasured creators and Mattel collaborators… their spirit and love for Barbie turned every creation into a masterpiece.”
- Paglino and Grossi, also known as Magni2000, founded their custom doll business in 1999.
- They received the Barbie Best Friend Award in 2016 from designer Carol Spencer.
- The duo were celebrated for their celebrity-inspired Barbie dolls – featuring icons like Cher, Lady Gaga, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Sophia Loren.
🌍 Global Barbie Community Mourns
Beyond their creative genius, the couple were cherished for their warmth, humor, and infectious energy, often spotlighted at the Italian Doll Convention and international shows.
“They brought joy, laughter, and a sense of belonging to every room,” Mattel said in its tribute.
