Luster Bayless Cause of Death: Famed Costumer Who Worked With John Wayne Was 84
Luster Bayless, a famed costumer in the film and television industry who previously worked with the legend John Wayne, has passed away at the age of 84.
His daughter, Diana Foster, confirmed his death to The Hollywood Reporter, saying her father died at his home in Canyon County, California, due to natural causes relating to his dementia.
The costumer spent his early days in Ruleville, Mississippi. He was born on October 26, 1937.
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During his high school days, he became the captain of the softball team before serving two years in the U.S. Navy.
Bayless hitchhiked to Los Angeles, California, when he got back to scout for better opportunities. His friend helped him get a job interview at Western Costume in 1959.
The costumer was immediately hired and worked in the company as a staff costumer until 1961. Bayless worked hard to earn money as he also tended the bar at The Playboy as well as parking cars for another bar, Tom Bergin's.
After working on several films produced by Disney and John Wayne in 1963, he was offered to do all of Duke's movies which he immediately agreed to do.
Since Wayne is known for his cowboy hats, he was asked how he selected a hat for the legendary actor, to which he replied, "I just threw a bunch of them down on the floor, and he picked up the one that he liked."
Later in his life, Bayless launched his own company called American Costume Co., later renamed United American Costume. The company is now run by his daughter, Diana.
The North Hollywood-based company is considered the first independent, non-studio outfit to curate wardrobe and staff for a set budget.
In 2013, Bayless's hard work was recognized by the Motion Pictures Costumers Group as he was given the lifetime achievement award.
The Costume Designers Guild's Legacy Award was also given to him in 2018.
According to IMBd, some of the costumer's film credits include "Rooster Cogburn," "Night of Terror," "Cahill U.S. Marshall," "The Undefeated," "True Gift: A Further Adventure," and many more.
His last credit was for the film "Mouth of Caddo," released in 2008.
Luster Bayless is survived by his daughters, Christy and Diana, and his sister Rita.
