Oscar-winning costume designer Theodor Pistek dies at 93

Entertainment Dec 04, 2025

Theodor Pistek, the creative mind behind Amadeus's iconic costumes, has passed away at 93.
Born into an artistic Prague family and trained as a painter, he shot to global fame after winning the Oscar for Best Costume Design in 1985.
His work helped Amadeus sweep eight Academy Awards, and he later teamed up with director Milos Forman on Valmont and The People vs. Larry Flynt.

More than just costumes: Pistek's legacy

Beyond Hollywood, Pistek left his mark on Czech culture—designing new uniforms for the Prague Castle Guard after Communism ended and earning the Medal of Merit from President Vaclav Havel.
Even with all his film success, he called painting his "life's calling" and was celebrated for his photorealistic art.