Beloved “Project Runway” alum and Bay Area fashion designer Chris March has died. He was 56 years old.
The cause of death, according to TMZ, was a heart attack the designer suffered on Thursday afternoon.
March, who originated from Alameda, California, served as the longtime costume designer for the musical review “Beach Blanket Babylon” before appearing as a contestant on Season 4 of Bravo’s hit fashion design series.
A fan favorite, he also made subsequent appearances on Season 4 of “Project Runway All Stars,” and 2009’s “Project Runway: All-Star Challenge.”
March went on to create custom pieces for celebrity clients such as Beyoncé, Meryl Streep, Lady Gaga and Madonna.
In June 2017, the designer suffered a debilitating fall in his apartment and had to be put in a medically-induced coma for two months. When he awoke, he was paralyzed in both legs from the knees down, as well as in his right hand and arm.
In 2018, he shared an update with fans, writing in a statement to EW: “This has been a long and extremely difficult journey, physically and emotionally. And I have a long way to go, just like Dorothy. I could not have survived without my family and friends. I deeply appreciate everyone who has donated to the Go Fund Me page.”
Continued March at the time: “I have good days and bad days and the worst days you can imagine, but I still have my brain, and for that miracle I am forever grateful. Thank you for your thoughts, prayers and encouragement.”
A spokesperson for Bravo told Page Six Style, “We are deeply saddened by the news of Chris March’s passing. He was a favorite among Bravo fans and the fashion community. Our condolences go out to his family and friends. He will truly be missed.”