Barbie celebrates Marilyn Monroe's centenary with new doll

Barbie is commemorating the centenary of Marilyn Monroe's birth with the launch of a new doll inspired by the legendary actress. The doll pays homage to Monroe's unforgettable performance in the 1953 film 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,' specifically her iconic musical number.

The meticulously designed doll wears a version of the famous pink strapless gown and diamond necklace that Monroe sported in the "Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend" scene. Mattel collaborated with The Estate of Marilyn Monroe LLC to ensure the accuracy and detail of the design, aiming to capture the essence of one of the actress's most memorable cinematic moments.

Mattel highlighted the "Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend" scene as a pivotal "fashion moment" in cinema that significantly shaped Monroe's cultural legacy. The doll's attire, complete with a large bow and long gloves, emulates the "unmistakable glamour" associated with Marilyn Monroe.

Robert Best, vice president and creative director of doll design at Mattel, stated that the doll is more than just a tribute to an iconic look. It also celebrates Monroe as a "shrewd producer, businesswoman, and barrier-breaking artist," recognizing the entirety of her impressive legacy. This release follows previous Barbie collections honoring Monroe between 1997 and 2009, which celebrated her film roles and fashion moments. Mattel has also created dolls inspired by numerous other cultural icons, including Whitney Houston, David Bowie, and Elvis Presley.

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More than a tribute to this unforgettable look, we honor Marilyn as a shrewd producer, businesswoman, and barrier-breaking artist, and this doll celebrates the entirety of her incredible legacy.