RIP Sharon Gault

Sharon Gault Obituary, Los Angeles, CA — Makeup World Mourns Mama Makeup

Call Spirit Cloud

By Rod Wave

9/18/2026

 

The beauty and fashion communities are mourning the reported death of renowned makeup artist Sharon Gault, affectionately known as “Mama Makeup.” Gault was celebrated for her creativity, warmth, and decades-long career working with some of the biggest names in entertainment and fashion.

News of her passing was confirmed through tributes from friends and colleagues, including photographer David LaChapelle, who shared an emotional remembrance of Gault on social media. Other figures from the entertainment and fashion worlds also expressed their sadness following the news.

Gault built an extraordinary career as a makeup and beauty artist. Her credits included work connected to Madonna’s Blond Ambition and Girlie Show tours, as well as projects involving major artists and actors. She also worked with celebrities including Elton John, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger, Cameron Diaz, Britney Spears, Jennifer Garner, and many others.

Her connection to Madonna’s world helped introduce her to a much wider audience. Gault appeared in the 1991 documentary Truth or Dare, filmed during Madonna’s Blond Ambition era. Her work also extended into the world of Lady Gaga. Earlier profiles of her career highlighted her collaborations with Gaga on music videos and editorial projects, including work photographed by LaChapelle.

Beyond her work with celebrities, Gault was remembered as a mentor and encouraging presence within the makeup community. She taught aspiring artists and spoke openly about the importance of finding mentors, developing skills, and pursuing opportunities with determination. Her nickname, “Mama Makeup,” reflected the nurturing role she often played for younger artists and colleagues. Her professional relationship with David LaChapelle became another defining part of her story. The pair collaborated extensively over the years, and LaChapelle’s tribute following her death described Gault as a best friend and a lasting light in his life.

Gault is survived by her daughter, Adelaide, and grandson, Leo. The exact circumstances and cause of Gault’s death have not been publicly disclosed in the sources reviewed. As tributes continue to emerge, Sharon Gault’s legacy remains closely connected to the artists she inspired, the celebrities she worked with, and the many people who knew her as Mama Makeup.

For the beauty industry, her passing marks the loss of a distinctive creative voice whose influence stretched across makeup, music, fashion, photography, and Hollywood. Friends, colleagues, and admirers continue to remember her artistry, generosity, and unmistakable personality.

GAULT, Sharon (Sharon Lynn Gault)

Born: 1/?/1965, Santa Monica, California, U.S.A

Died: 9/16/2026, Santa Monica, California, U.S.A.

 

Sharon Gault’s western – makeup artist:

Prairie Girls - 1995