Pop icon Cher has revealed the defiant story behind her legendary 1986 Academy Awards outfit, describing it as her "f--- you moment" after being snubbed for an Oscar nomination for her role in "Mask."
Speaking in the new documentary "Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion," the 78-year-old singer and actress shared how her provocative ensemble came to be. The outfit, designed by Bob Mackie, featured a black jewel-encrusted bralette, a matching low-rise skirt with a dramatic slit, thigh-high boots, and a towering feather headpiece.
"I didn't get nominated for a movie that everyone thought I would actually win," Cher explains in the documentary. "They thought I wasn't serious. I didn't dress like a serious actress."
Mackie recalls Cher approaching him with a clear mission, saying she wanted to remind people of her glamorous side after playing "down and dirty characters" in films like "Silkwood." The designer reveals the collaborative process, including the memorable moment when he suggested adding a loin cloth - an idea Cher enthusiastically embraced.
The outfit made such an impact that even fellow actress Jane Fonda couldn't wait to witness the audience's reaction. "Please wait until I get back to my seat before you come out," Fonda reportedly told Cher that evening.
When presenting the award for Best Supporting Actor, Cher delivered a pointed quip: "As you can see, I did receive my academy booklet on how to dress like a serious actress."
While the ensemble shocked many traditionalists at the time, it has since become one of the most memorable Oscar fashion moments. Ironically, Cher would go on to win the Academy Award for Best Actress two years later for her role in "Moonstruck."
The revelation comes as part of "Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion," currently showing in select theaters.
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