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A white fedora worn by Michael Jackson in the music video for his hit song "Smooth Criminal", which was released in November 1988 and featured on his acclaimed album Bad. Jackson had an unprecedented career as a performer, producing hit after hit, while creating incredible dance choreography and wearing distinctive clothing that fans worldwide sought to replicate. This is an incredibly rare opportunity to obtain a key "King of Pop" wardrobe piece that featured in one of his most beloved videos.
Directed by Colin Chilvers, the "Smooth Criminal" video is considered one of Jackson's greatest short films (lasting approximately nine-and-a-half minutes), which also formed part of his 1988 anthology movie Moonwalker. Depicting Jackson dancing in a 1930s nightclub, its impressive choreography memorably includes the "anti-gravity lean", where Jackson and his fellow performers tilted to 45 degrees with both feet flat on the floor.
Another element that makes the video so iconic is Jackson's attire. The fedora became one of his signature clothing items during his career, and the white fedora is best known for its appearance in "Smooth Criminal". Along with his distinctive white suit, it was chosen to encapsulate the video's 1930s gangster aesthetic, while also providing a tribute to Fred Astaire in the "The Girl Hunt Ballet" scene in 1953 musical rom-com The Band Wagon.
Jackson originally gifted this hat to costumier Phillip Dennis after filming wrapped. Dennis has stated that this fedora was one of three Jackson donned, with this particular one being extensively worn during the shoot. It was one of the first custom white fedoras the Golden Gate Hat Company produced for Jackson.
A multi-coloured feather (included in the lot) originally adorned the black band, and was something Jackson wanted to keep. However, it was decided the feather was too distracting, so it was removed during principal photography. It was later re-added for promotional photo opportunities, and the feather can be seen on Jackson's fedora in behind-the-scenes footage and images.
The white woollen custom-made fedora is decorated with a black grosgrain ribbon. The number "1" is handwritten on the underside of the brim, and the hat's lining features the Golden Gate Hat Company logo. "Michael Jackson" and the company name are printed on the internal leather sweatband in gold-coloured text.
Also included is a laminated "Chicago Nights" (the production's working title) pass with "No. 225" printed on the back. The hat's exterior exhibits some staining and marks, particularly on the under brim. The gold writing on the sweatband has worn away from use, notably on Jackson's name. The lot is accompanied by a letter of provenance signed by Dennis. It explains his involvement in the project and the fedora's history, and is dated "July 12th 1991".
Estimate: £40,000 - 80,000 M
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