Who was Ivan Bart? Former President of IMG Models Dead at 60

Renowned former president of IMG Models, Ivan Bart, has passed away at the age of 60 after a brief illness over the weekend. His impact on the fashion industry was profound, as he played a pivotal role in launching the careers of iconic catwalk models, including Gigi and Bella Hadid, Lauren Hutton, Carolyn Murphy, and Stephanie Seymour.

The news of his untimely death was conveyed via his official Instagram account, accompanied by a poignant black and white photograph of Bart. The caption was succinct, bearing the solemn message, “Our world has lost one of the greats. Ivan Bart, 1963-2023,” without providing further information regarding the cause of his passing.

Gigi Hadid, aged 28, took to her own Instagram account to express her profound grief upon learning of Bart’s demise. In her heartfelt tribute, she stated, “Ivan, I do not yet have words for this loss. I will never forget your spirit and hugs, your support and fight for others. Thank you, thank you, thank you, for everything. Rest in peace, legend. Mr. Bart. Forever ‘My Boss.’ You are so loved.”

Following Gigi’s personal message, several other models added their expressions of shock and sadness in the comments section of the original post announcing the tragic news. Cindy Crawford shared her sorrow with, “Oh no! Sorry to hear this sad news,” and Shanina Shaik wrote, “I’m heartbroken omg! A blessing to have known Ivan, you will be missed!”

Gigi and Bella Hadid’s father, Mohamed Hadid, conveyed his condolences by saying, “Most gentle souls… a wonderful human. I am saddened by this news. He was a guiding light to everyone that touched his life. God bless his soul. My condolences to his family and his friends… he was loved.”

Fashion designer Rachel Zoe added, “I am at a loss; my heart is broken. I have known and loved Ivan since the day I started in the industry.”

Ivan Bart’s passing marks a significant loss in the world of fashion, leaving an indelible void in the hearts of those he mentored and inspired throughout his remarkable career.