With the new live-action Barbie movie, pink is in! Whether you loved the movie or just feeling a bit nostalgic for arguably the world's most popular doll, read on.
Barbie started as a fashion doll but has become an icon for much more than fashion. She has had every occupation you can think of and has had her share of cringe-worthy controversy with regard to body image and lack of diversity, but has remained a cultural icon. Here are some fun facts about Barbie that even Barbie lovers may not know:
- Barbie's full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts. She is named after her creator Ruth Handler's daughter Barbara.
- Barbie's boyfriend Ken's full name is Kenneth Sean Carson. Ken debuted in 1961.
- Mattel, Inc. launched the first Barbie fashion doll on March 9, 1959 at the American International Toy Fair in NYC. This date is Barbie's official birthday.
- The first Barbie dolls sold for $3.00 and would sell for thousands of dollars today if in mint boxed condition.
- With over a billion Barbie dolls sold, Barbie is Mattel's largest and most profitable line.
- Barbie's appearance has changed over the years. 1971 marked the year that Barbie's eyes were changed to look forward instead of the demure sideways glance. In 1997, Barbie's body was redesigned to give her a wider waist, making her (slightly) more realistic. Read more about how Barbie has evolved since her big debut in 1959, opens a new window.
- Barbie's first job was a fashion model, but she has had over 250 careers since then. What a resume!
- Barbie is a pop culture staple, having inspired countless artists, filmmakers and designers. Barbie has appeared in over 40 movies, had part of Times Square temporarily named after her as Barbie Boulevard for a week in 1974, and was featured in an exhibit at the Louvre in 2016 featuring 700 Barbie dolls as well as artwork and more.
Have you dreamed of staying in a real life Barbie house? Check out Barbie's Malibu DreamHouse, opens a new window hosted by Ken on Airbnb.
Even for those who saw the Barbie movie multiple times, there were so many clever references it was hard to catch them all. This articles recaps Things You Missed About the Barbie Movie, opens a new window.
Barbie is all about female empowerment! Check out this list of books, DVDs and music that would be Barbie approved.
Barbie is one of the most beloved (and sometimes controversial) toy brands of all time and is in good company with a movie of her own. Toys have always been a vital part of human existence, so it's no surprise toys are at the center of numerous movies. Check out this list of other movies based on toys.
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