Barbie, the iconic doll that has sold millions the world over, is sixty-three years old. That’s right, Barbie is a senior citizen! Instead of enjoying retirement, Barbie is still living it up, Malibu style!
Since her debut in 1959, people have adored the doll and clamored for Barbie lore. There are so many things about Barbie that aren’t common knowledge. Read on to learn five Barbie facts that’ll blow your mind!
1. Barbie Is A Nickname
Barbie’s full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts. She’s named after Mattel founder Ruth Handler’s daughter Barbara. Turns out, Ken’s named after the Handler’s son, so that’s awkward.
Barbara Handler wasn’t fond of having a doll named after her. She was 17 when the doll first came out and got tired of talking about it pretty fast. Being the namesake of a child’s toy is a hassle!
2. She’s From A Small Town
Barbie’s hometown is the fictional Willows, Wisconsin. She went to Willows High School and was popular there. No word on where she went to college, but considering how many careers she’s had, she’s got a lot of degrees.
Wisconsin is pretty proud of having Barbie as a native, even if Willows isn’t real. The Wisconsin Historical Society keeps a 1961 edition of the doll as part of its exhibit. Too bad she spends most of her time in Malibu.
3. Barbie Has Seven Siblings
Barbie’s from a big family, so big they don’t seem to miss when one of them goes missing! Barbie’s family consisted of Chelsea, Krissy, Kelly, and the twins Tutti and Todd. That is until Tutti mysteriously disappeared in 1971.
Even more mysterious is the enigmatic Stacie, who appeared in 1992. She’s also Todd’s twin sister! What happened to poor Tutti? Barbie’s family life is like a soap opera!
4. She’s Based On A German Doll
Barbie’s real-life history isn’t without spice. Mattel co-founder Ruth Handler took her kids on vacation through Europe. While there, she saw a German doll named Bild Lilli.
Lilli is not for kids, though, and came from a comic strip about a high-class call girl! Lilli was a popular doll and was found in various adult stores across Germany. Handler loved it.
Handler took the concept home and pitched it to her husband, a Mattel executive. Of course, they made the doll more kid-friendly, and the rest is history. Bild Lilli’s original manufacturer tried to sue but lost the suit.
5. She’s Done Everything
From an astronaut to a dentist, Barbie Roberts has about done it all. Her first ever job was as a teen fashion model. To date, she’s had over two hundred careers in her life, and she shows no sign of slowing down!
Some of the more memorable careers Barbie has held include a Canadian Mountie, Catwoman, and a rapper. She’s even run for president a few times. No matter her age, you can’t keep Barbie down!
Barbie Facts To Blow Your Mind
Barbie is an icon in popular culture, and these Barbie facts are only the tip of a gigantic iceberg! While she’s had her ups and downs, Barbie continues to inspire young girls around the world. Keep following her career, it’s only going to get better!
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