The company behind Barbie announced its most diverse line of Ken dolls to date on Tuesday.
The company behind Barbie announced its most diverse line of Ken dolls Tuesday.
Mattel introduced three new body types for its dolls — “slim, broad or original”– seven skin tones — including Asian, mixed race or Latino — and nine hairstyles, including the man bun and cornrows, according to the Telegraph.
The change follows its 2016 decision to address Barbie’s implausible proportions by revealing three new body shapes – petite, tall, and curvy – as well as 24 hair styles.
The toy maker announced relaunching the brand to suit more modern tastes, “modernizing Ken for the next step in the brand revolution.”
“By continuing to expand our product line, we are redefining what a Barbie or Ken doll looks like to this generation, ” Lisa McKnight, Barbie’s senior vice president and general manager, said in a press release according to ABC News .
“Evolving Ken was a natural evolution for the brand and allows girls to further personalize the role they want him to play in Barbie’s world, ” McKnight said.
Seven of the 15 new Ken dolls were unveiled exclusively on “ Good Morning America ” Tuesday.
The original Ken doll debuted more than five decades ago, sporting red swim trunks and cork sandals. “Dream Date Ken, ” released in 1984 and dressed in a sleek black jacket and bow tie, typified the iconic dress for a perfect date with Ken’s partner, Barbie.
Now, Mattel has gone modern, giving Ken dolls a progressive look to match current culture.
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The dolls join the more than 100 diverse looks that the Barbie brand has launched in the last three years with its Barbie Fashionista line.
T his is not the first transformation of the Ken doll. Over time, he has been depicted as a “Rappin’ Rockin’ Ken, ” “Dr. Ken, ” and “Magic Earring Ken.”
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