Ann-Margret, 85, Keeps Riding and Auctions Her Iconic Harley-Davidson and Bob Mackie Costumes
On June 23, the actress will open her personal archives to the public through a partnership with Julien’s Auctions. The auction will feature a range of items that have been part of her career and personal life, including her custom‑painted 1997 Harley‑Davidson Sportster XL883 Hugger, a motorcycle she has ridden for more than twenty‑five years. The bike is described as mauve‑tinted with a daisy motif and has been a constant companion on set and off.
Other auction pieces include several Bob Mackie‑designed costumes that helped establish Ann‑Margret as a Hollywood sex symbol. The designer, known for his glittering ensembles for singers and actors, created outfits for the star in the 1960s and 1970s. Items up for sale also include a 1963 ivory‑and‑orange gown worn on The Ed Sullivan Show and a signed 1979 book by Arnold Schwarzenegger.
The auction is part of a larger June 2026 program of Hollywood legend sales at Julien’s Auctions, which also features props from Jaws, Steve McQueen motorcycles, and other memorabilia. The auction is scheduled to run through the end of the month.
Ann‑Margret’s love of motorcycles began in her youth. She recalled riding with her uncle in Sweden and later riding her own bike in the United States. In the Fox interview she said, “I love the speed. I try not to go too fast, although I do love the speed. I’m joyful when I get on that bike.” She added that she has never been scared on a bike and that the freedom she experiences is a key part of her vitality.
The actress’s career spans seven decades. She has earned five Golden Globe Awards, two Laurel Awards, an Emmy, a Hollywood Walk of Fame star, and two Academy Award nominations. She has appeared in films ranging from Pocketful of Miracles (1961) to Going in Style (2017) and has performed on stage, in television, and in music videos.
In addition to the auction, Ann‑Margret recently received a commemorative USO Challenge Coin in honor of her decades of service to American service members. The award was presented the day after her 85th birthday.
The auction and the public appearance underscore the actress’s continued engagement with her fan base and her willingness to share personal artifacts. The sale of her Harley and costumes will likely attract collectors interested in Hollywood history and motorcycle culture.
As of now, the auction is scheduled to begin on June 23, with the final sale date set for the end of the month. Fans and collectors can view the catalog and place bids through Julien’s Auctions website.
The event highlights how a 20‑year‑old motorcycle can remain a symbol of freedom for an 85‑year‑old actress and how her legacy continues to resonate with new generations of fans.