OK, Wait a Minute—How Old Is Barbie, Exactly?
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Is there a more iconic toy than Barbie? Arguably, no. Barbie is THE iconic toy. Her life has been the subject of countless songs, movies and books. Barbie has been taking the world by storm since her release. And while we're all familiar with the doll, there are some facts that aren't as universally known. For example, how old is Barbie? What is her full name? What's the deal with her and Ken?
Many people are becoming increasingly interested in the answers, especially thanks to the upcoming live-action Barbie movie. Starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, Barbie opens in theaters on July 21, 2023. So many of us are excited about this movie’s release, and not just because of the all-star cast, but because of Barbie herself.
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Barbie is inspiring not only because of her superb fashion sense, but also for her work ethic, which is strong enough to have the doll doing every job imaginable. And not just to try it, but so that children everywhere can dream of doing a particular job too—just like Barbie. As Barbie says in the movie, Barbie as the Princess and the Pauper, “Live your dream!”
To give back to the plastic doll who has given us so much, and to help you get ready for the upcoming live-action flick, we’ve collected some fun facts about Barbie.
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Barbie Fashionistas Doll with Long Braided Black Hair, Heart Print Top with Ruffled Sleeves & Shorts, Sneakers & Heart-shaped Sunglasses, Toy for Kids 3 to 8 Years Old
When Was Barbie Created?
On March 9, 1959, blonde and brunette Barbies took to the shelves of toy stores everywhere. Within a year of their release, over 300,000 Barbies were sold.
How Old Was Barbie When She Was Created?
Though no specific age was given when she was first released beyond her being a “teenage fashion model,” Mattel has since disclosed that Barbie is, and will forever remain, 19 years old. Oh, to be frozen in time.
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How Old Is Barbie Today?
As mentioned above, Barbie stopped aging at 19, but if we’re counting birthdays, Barbie is 64 years old.
How Much Is the First Barbie Worth Today?
It depends. An original, mint-in-box (MIB) edition could go for around $25,000. However, you can find some unique Barbie dolls for much more affordable prices on eBay right now (however, they're not all in such prime condition or as vintage).
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Barbie Signature Malibu Barbie & Friends Vintage Reproduction Gift Set, PJ and Christie Repro Dolls in Swimwear, Gift for Collector
What Is Barbie's Full Name?
Barbie's full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts, named after the daughter of Elliot Handler, one of Mattel’s co-founders. Though the full names of Barbie and her family are not well known, they do have them; including her younger sister, Skipper, and her friend, Midge.
Examples of Other Barbie Dolls' Full Names
Ken Carson
Skipper Roberts
Midge Hadley
How Many Jobs Has Barbie Had?
Barbie's had over 200 careers over the years—too many jobs to count! If something is an actual job, Barbie has probably done it. From rapper to florist, Barbie’s resume is impossible to compete with. One of the working woman's first careers included fashion design.
Barbie Careers Doll & Playset, Baby Doctor Theme with Blonde Fashion Doll, 2 Baby Dolls, Furniture & Accessories
Some Examples of Barbie's Careers:
Fashion Editor
Surgeon
Olympic Skier
Aerobics Instructor
Naval Petty Officer
Police Officer
Presidential Candidate
TV Chef
Architect
Entrepreneur
When Is National Barbie Day?
Fittingly, National Barbie Day falls on the iconic toy’s birthday, March 9. Leave it to Barbie to have the whole world celebrate her birthday. And since no toy is more iconic, she has definitely earned the recognition.
Did Barbie Have a Boyfriend?
Yes, and Barbie and Ken are still an item. Ken entered the picture on March 11, 1961, and the pair were in a relationship up until February 14, 2004, when they ended things. Some people attributed the relationship’s sudden end to Barbie’s being all-too-ready to commit (having been sold in wedding dresses time and time again over the years) and Ken’s being less willing to do so. However, they gave things another go on February 14, 2011, after a seven-year “break,” and have been together ever since.
Barbie Car Beach Cruiser with Barbie Doll in Sundress and Ken Doll in Beach Outfit, Pink 2-Seater Open Toy Car
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