&nbsp;Barbie is celebrating the 'King of Rock and Roll,'&nbsp;Elvis Presley, with a collectable doll. 
 
The female doll made by Mattel Inc is dressed in Presley's 'American Eagle'&nbsp;jumpsuit, which features colourful rhinestones, a cape and a red scarf. Presley wore the jumpsuit during numerous concert appearances.

<img alt="e" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f212c46-7cee-4de8-a106-7f325823cc14" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/happy%2030th%20birthday%20-%202021-08-12T105253.118.jpg" /> 
 
Elvis` first RCA single, 'Heartbreak Hotel,' was released in 1956 and became the first Elvis single to sell over 1 million copies, followed by his first album, 'Elvis Presley,'&nbsp;which went to No. 1 on Billboard`s pop album chart. 
 
In 1973 Elvis made television and entertainment history with his 'Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite.'&nbsp;It was the first, worldwide live satellite broadcast of a concert and was seen in about 40 countries by 1 billion to 1.5 billion people. 
 
Presley died Aug. 16, 1977, at his Graceland home in Memphis, Tennessee.

Barbie is celebrating the 'King of Rock and Roll,' Elvis Presley, with a collectable doll. The female doll made by Mattel Inc is dressed in Presley's 'American Eagle' jumpsuit, which features colourful rhinestones, a cape and a red scarf.

Barbie is celebrating the 'King of Rock and Roll,' Elvis Presley, with a collectable doll. The female doll made by Mattel Inc is dressed in Presley's 'American Eagle' jumpsuit, which features colourful rhinestones, a cape and a red scarf. Presley wore the jumpsuit during numerous concert appearances. Elvis` first RCA single, 'Heartbreak Hotel,' was released in 1956 and became the first Elvis single to sell over 1 million copies, followed by his first album, 'Elvis Presley,' which went to No. 1 on Billboard`s pop album chart. In 1973 Elvis made television and entertainment history with his 'Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite.' It was the first, worldwide live satellite broadcast of a concert and was seen in about 40 countries by 1 billion to 1.5 billion people. Presley died Aug. 16, 1977, at his Graceland home in Memphis, Tennessee.

Barbie celebrates Elvis Presley with collectible doll

Mattel, the toy company that manufactures Barbie dolls, is facing heavy criticism on social media over the latest collection of dolls dedicated to the Tokyo Olympics for not including Asian Barbie. As per Mattel's official statement, the toy-making company said that they collaborated with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Tokyo 2020 to create the Olympic-themed dolls.&nbsp;

The statement further added that the latest product line of Olympic-inspired Barbies highlights "inclusivity and innovation" and reflects the five new sports added to Tokyo Games — which was baseball/softball, sport climbing, karate, skateboarding and surfing. The aim was to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans around the world.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-among-countries-with-highest-cash-rewards-for-tokyo-olympic-medalists-check-out-the-complete-list-402017">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>&nbsp;

"Tokyo 2020 is a monumental event that brings the world together through sport and inspires fans of all ages," said Janet Hsu, Chief Franchise Officer of Mattel.&nbsp;

"The Mattel Tokyo 2020 Collection honours these sports and inspires a new generation through the Olympic spirit and outstanding athletic tradition," he added.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Barbie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Barbie</a> is committed to empowering girls to participate in sports by capturing the fun and friendship of the season, and inspiring kids to find the athlete within.🏅 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YouCanBeAnything?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YouCanBeAnything</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://t.co/MFjn2ZhfvW">https://t.co/MFjn2ZhfvW</a> <a href="https://t.co/XftIDTaZMo">pic.twitter.com/XftIDTaZMo</a>
— Barbie (@Barbie) <a href="https://twitter.com/Barbie/status/1420437588406685700?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bhavani-devis-efforts-to-neeraj-chopras-gold-historic-firsts-and-some-shining-moments-of-india-at-tokyo-olympics-404251">Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics</a>

The caption of the Barbie's post read, "#Barbie is committed to empowering girls to participate in sports by capturing the fun and friendship of the season, and inspiring kids to find the athlete within."

However, social media users have expressed their disappointment over the image that was shared on Twitter and Instagram. Some of the users were furious over the omission of an Asian doll, especially as the Games were held in an Asian city, Tokyo. Some users pointed out that one of the dolls "has Asian features".&nbsp;

One user wrote, "Wow. Wordless. Olympics in an Asian country yet zero attempt to represent any Asians in your collection. Shame on you @Barbie". Another chimed in and said, "EPIC FAIL. What happen to being “Inclusive”. Where is the Asian Barbie ?!?!? You are part of the problem. The Olympics is happening in Tokyo, an asian country. I know you can do better than this. Very disappointed."

"So disappointing that by trying to be inclusive you exclude almost 60% of the world's population as well as that of the host country. Many of the top female athletes in the Olympics are asian. This was not an oversight but blatant racism," wrote one of the users.&nbsp;

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According to Mattel you can can anything , but ASIAN if you want to be included. The Olympics is literally happening in Asia. An Asian countries has the most gold medals. An Asian-American won gold in one of the biggest and most poplar event. Talk about tone deaf. Do much better!
— Allen Chan (@achan0501) <a href="https://twitter.com/achan0501/status/1423457089255395330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Where’s the Asian Barbie?? They are generally hard to find but you would think Olympics would include! My daughter is half Asian &amp; I keep debating if she will ever play with Barbie. This just proves to me that Disney Princess is the way better choice! <a href="https://twitter.com/Hasbro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Hasbro</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DisneyStudios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DisneyStudios</a>
— Amanda Tran (@awadds) <a href="https://twitter.com/awadds/status/1423824206920404998?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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You can't have a doll representing the Olympics and Not include a doll of Asian Quality! The sports held Tokoyo why not include a doll from that country? Instead of 2 blonde, it should one and a Asian doll. Period! How fair is it to them?
— Kisha (@Kisha45134780) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kisha45134780/status/1424822504556797953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Major failure! Where is the doll that looks Asian? Especially Olympic 2020 is taking place in Japan which is an Asian country. <a href="https://twitter.com/Mattel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mattel</a> this is a disaster, whether it’s accidental or intentional.
— Mellie (@mesyndaily) <a href="https://twitter.com/mesyndaily/status/1423838163223650305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This is an Asian Barbie. They got screamed at for making an Asian Barbie look “too Asian”. Now this one isn’t Asian enough. They can’t win. Someone is always offended. <a href="https://t.co/d3jHSDlM7U">pic.twitter.com/d3jHSDlM7U</a>
— Just the Facts Ma’am (@tell_me_girl) <a href="https://twitter.com/tell_me_girl/status/1424806229050806278?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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So far, there's no response from the toy making company.&nbsp;

Mattel, the toy company that manufactures Barbie dolls, is facing heavy criticism on social media over the latest collection of dolls dedicated to the Tokyo Olympics for not including Asian Barbie.

Mattel, the toy company that manufactures Barbie dolls, is facing heavy criticism on social media over the latest collection of dolls dedicated to the Tokyo Olympics for not including Asian Barbie. As per Mattel's official statement, the toy-making company said that they collaborated with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Tokyo 2020 to create the Olympic-themed dolls. The statement further added that the latest product line of Olympic-inspired Barbies highlights "inclusivity and innovation" and reflects the five new sports added to Tokyo Games — which was baseball/softball, sport climbing, karate, skateboarding and surfing. The aim was to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans around the world. IN PICS | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list "Tokyo 2020 is a monumental event that brings the world together through sport and inspires fans of all ages," said Janet Hsu, Chief Franchise Officer of Mattel. "The Mattel Tokyo 2020 Collection honours these sports and inspires a new generation through the Olympic spirit and outstanding athletic tradition," he added. #Barbie is committed to empowering girls to participate in sports by capturing the fun and friendship of the season, and inspiring kids to find the athlete within.🏅 #YouCanBeAnything #tokyo2020 #Olympics https://t.co/MFjn2ZhfvW pic.twitter.com/XftIDTaZMo — Barbie (@Barbie) July 28, 2021 × IN PICS | Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics The caption of the Barbie's post read, "#Barbie is committed to empowering girls to participate in sports by capturing the fun and friendship of the season, and inspiring kids to find the athlete within." However, social media users have expressed their disappointment over the image that was shared on Twitter and Instagram. Some of the users were furious over the omission of an Asian doll, especially as the Games were held in an Asian city, Tokyo. Some users pointed out that one of the dolls "has Asian features". One user wrote, "Wow. Wordless. Olympics in an Asian country yet zero attempt to represent any Asians in your collection. Shame on you @Barbie". Another chimed in and said, "EPIC FAIL. What happen to being “Inclusive”. Where is the Asian Barbie ?!?!? You are part of the problem. The Olympics is happening in Tokyo, an asian country. I know you can do better than this. Very disappointed." "So disappointing that by trying to be inclusive you exclude almost 60% of the world's population as well as that of the host country. Many of the top female athletes in the Olympics are asian. This was not an oversight but blatant racism," wrote one of the users. According to Mattel you can can anything , but ASIAN if you want to be included. The Olympics is literally happening in Asia. An Asian countries has the most gold medals. An Asian-American won gold in one of the biggest and most poplar event. Talk about tone deaf. Do much better! — Allen Chan (@achan0501) August 6, 2021 × Where’s the Asian Barbie?? They are generally hard to find but you would think Olympics would include! My daughter is half Asian & I keep debating if she will ever play with Barbie. This just proves to me that Disney Princess is the way better choice! @Hasbro @DisneyStudios — Amanda Tran (@awadds) August 7, 2021 × You can't have a doll representing the Olympics and Not include a doll of Asian Quality! The sports held Tokoyo why not include a doll from that country? Instead of 2 blonde, it should one and a Asian doll. Period! How fair is it to them? — Kisha (@Kisha45134780) August 9, 2021 × Major failure! Where is the doll that looks Asian? Especially Olympic 2020 is taking place in Japan which is an Asian country. @Mattel this is a disaster, whether it’s accidental or intentional. — Mellie (@mesyndaily) August 7, 2021 × This is an Asian Barbie. They got screamed at for making an Asian Barbie look “too Asian”. Now this one isn’t Asian enough. They can’t win. Someone is always offended. pic.twitter.com/d3jHSDlM7U — Just the Facts Ma’am (@tell_me_girl) August 9, 2021 × So far, there's no response from the toy making company.

Where are the Asians? Barbie slammed as Tokyo Olympics-themed dolls seem not to include an entire community

The co-creator of the Pfizer-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine is set to be part of the Barbie dolls for her achievement that has saved millions&nbsp;around the world from the deadly coronavirus.

Professor Sarah Gilbert led the development of the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine at Oxford University. She had earlier been thanked for her efforts at the Wimbledon in form of a standing ovation, she has been made a dame and now, she has a Barbie doll made in her honour.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/barbie-maker-mattel-warns-of-higher-prices-as-shipping-costs-rise-401189" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/barbie-maker-mattel-warns-of-higher-prices-as-shipping-costs-rise-401189&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjT_-bskpfyAhV_3zgGHXY-B-EQFjABegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2qIVWGGolIk3c9EuGafo4s" dir="ltr" href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/barbie-maker-mattel-warns-of-higher-prices-as-shipping-costs-rise-401189&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjT_-bskpfyAhV_3zgGHXY-B-EQFjABegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2qIVWGGolIk3c9EuGafo4s" target="_blank">Barbie&nbsp;maker Mattel warns of higher prices as shipping costs rise</a>

Gilbert, however, says she found this gesture to be "very strange" but she hopes it will encourage young people to take up jobs in the field of Science, technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

"I am passionate about inspiring the next generation of girls into Stem careers and hope that children who see my Barbie will realise how vital careers in science are to help the world around us," Gilbert said. "My wish is that my doll will show children careers they may not be aware of, like a vaccinologist."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-news-in-bid-to-boost-diversity-barbie-intoduces-dolls-with-vitiligo-and-no-hair-277505">In a bid to boost diversity, Barbie introduces dolls with vitiligo and no hair</a>

In addition to Gilbert, Mattel, the company that owns Barbie dolls, has also designed a few more models in honour of some other women who have made their name in STEM all around the world. These women are &nbsp;Amy O’Sullivan and Dr Audrey Cruz, US healthcare workers; Chika Stacy Oriuwa, a Canadian doctor; Dr Kirby White, an Australian healthcare worker who co-created a reusable gown for medical workers and Dr Jaqueline Goes de Jesus, a biomedical researcher.

"Barbie recognises that all frontline workers have made tremendous sacrifices when confronting the pandemic and the challenges it heightened. To shine a light on their efforts, we are sharing their stories … to inspire the next generation to take after these heroes and give back," said Lisa McKnight, senior vice-president and global head of Barbie and dolls at Mattel.

The co-creator of the Pfizer-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine is set to be part of the Barbie dolls for her achievement that has saved millions around the world from the deadly coronavirus.

The co-creator of the Pfizer-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine is set to be part of the Barbie dolls for her achievement that has saved millions around the world from the deadly coronavirus. Professor Sarah Gilbert led the development of the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine at Oxford University. She had earlier been thanked for her efforts at the Wimbledon in form of a standing ovation, she has been made a dame and now, she has a Barbie doll made in her honour. Also read | Barbie maker Mattel warns of higher prices as shipping costs rise Gilbert, however, says she found this gesture to be "very strange" but she hopes it will encourage young people to take up jobs in the field of Science, technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). "I am passionate about inspiring the next generation of girls into Stem careers and hope that children who see my Barbie will realise how vital careers in science are to help the world around us," Gilbert said. "My wish is that my doll will show children careers they may not be aware of, like a vaccinologist." Also read | In a bid to boost diversity, Barbie introduces dolls with vitiligo and no hair In addition to Gilbert, Mattel, the company that owns Barbie dolls, has also designed a few more models in honour of some other women who have made their name in STEM all around the world. These women are Amy O’Sullivan and Dr Audrey Cruz, US healthcare workers; Chika Stacy Oriuwa, a Canadian doctor; Dr Kirby White, an Australian healthcare worker who co-created a reusable gown for medical workers and Dr Jaqueline Goes de Jesus, a biomedical researcher. "Barbie recognises that all frontline workers have made tremendous sacrifices when confronting the pandemic and the challenges it heightened. To shine a light on their efforts, we are sharing their stories … to inspire the next generation to take after these heroes and give back," said Lisa McKnight, senior vice-president and global head of Barbie and dolls at Mattel.

Sarah Gilbert, creator of Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid vaccine, gets her own Barbie doll

A company titan in the toy industry says it has to raise prices in the months leading up to Christmas as its costs are on the rise.

Toymaker Mattel,&nbsp;the maker of Barbie dolls, recently made this comment&nbsp;explaining that during the global recovery from the pandemic, raw material and shipping costs shot up which will directly add to the production cost.

Talking to BBC, Ynon Kreiz, Mattel's chief executive said that they expect a hike in prices in the second half of the year, adding that the company is yet to decide which products will be affected.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-news-in-bid-to-boost-diversity-barbie-intoduces-dolls-with-vitiligo-and-no-hair-277505">In a bid to boost diversity, Barbie introduces dolls with vitiligo and no hair</a>

Mr Kreiz also noted that his company was not alone in increasing its prices.&nbsp;He says that other companies within the industry have also raised their prices, and no one is surprised by this move.

The Barbie doll maker also announced sales of more than $1 billion (£720 million), an amount that is far better than what they were expecting.&nbsp;

He was speaking as the company unveiled second-quarter figures that beat Wall Street forecasts.

Sales for the period rose 40 per cent to $1.03billion compared with the same period last year.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/barbie-unveils-european-female-athlete-collection-284308/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Contributing to this, the company's largest brand, Barbie, saw billings rise by 46 per cent, while&nbsp;Hot Wheels' billings surged 67 per cent.

The iconic doll's sales have surged in the last year as parents turned to it during pandemic-induced lockdowns. Barbie empire's push to increase diversity with different skin tones and role models has also appealed to customers.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mattels-barbie-extra-dolls-with-various-body-types-skin-tones-and-styles-go-on-sale-343914/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

This month, the company also unveiled a doll of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-japans-tennis-star-naomi-osaka-knocked-out-of-third-round-400902">Naomi Osaka</a>, the four-time Grand Slam singles champion from Japan.

(With inputs from agencies)

A company titan in the toy industry says it has to raise prices in the months leading up to Christmas as its costs are on the rise. Toymaker Mattel, the maker of Barbie dolls, recently made this comment explaining that during the global recovery from the pandemic, raw material and shipping costs shot up which will directly add to the production cost.

A company titan in the toy industry says it has to raise prices in the months leading up to Christmas as its costs are on the rise. Toymaker Mattel, the maker of Barbie dolls, recently made this comment explaining that during the global recovery from the pandemic, raw material and shipping costs shot up which will directly add to the production cost. Talking to BBC, Ynon Kreiz, Mattel's chief executive said that they expect a hike in prices in the second half of the year, adding that the company is yet to decide which products will be affected. Also read | In a bid to boost diversity, Barbie introduces dolls with vitiligo and no hair Mr Kreiz also noted that his company was not alone in increasing its prices. He says that other companies within the industry have also raised their prices, and no one is surprised by this move. The Barbie doll maker also announced sales of more than $1 billion (£720 million), an amount that is far better than what they were expecting. He was speaking as the company unveiled second-quarter figures that beat Wall Street forecasts. Sales for the period rose 40 per cent to $1.03billion compared with the same period last year. Contributing to this, the company's largest brand, Barbie, saw billings rise by 46 per cent, while Hot Wheels' billings surged 67 per cent. The iconic doll's sales have surged in the last year as parents turned to it during pandemic-induced lockdowns. Barbie empire's push to increase diversity with different skin tones and role models has also appealed to customers. This month, the company also unveiled a doll of Naomi Osaka, the four-time Grand Slam singles champion from Japan. (With inputs from agencies)

Barbie maker Mattel warns of higher prices as shipping costs rise

Barbie launched its new collection of female sporting role models on Tuesday (March 3) to celebrate International Women's Day.

Barbie unveils European female athlete collection

In a bid to celebrate female role models, Barbie has launched a doll to pay a tribute to the world champion British sprinter Dina Asher-Smith. The 24-year-old gold medallist, who is the fastest woman in British history, is part of a collection of female sporting ''Sheroes'' from around the world, created into dolls by American toy company Mattel.

In a bid to celebrate female role models, Barbie has launched a doll to pay a tribute to the world champion British sprinter Dina Asher-Smith. The 24-year-old gold medallist, who is the fastest woman in British history, is part of a collection of female sporting ''Sheroes'' from around the world, created into dolls by American toy company Mattel. Also read: In bid to boost diversity, Barbie introduces dolls with vitiligo and no hair The toy company is releasing the newly designed dolls in approbation of International Women's Day on March 8, and to raise awareness of female role models in the sporting world. Barbie is hoping to inspire the next generation of young women in a bid to close the ''dream gap'', a phenomenon where young girls are said to start believing women are less capable than men. In photo: Barbie model of British athlete Dina Asher-Smith (Picture courtesy: Mattel) Dina called it ''an honour'' to have been chosen to have her own doll, saying: ''I hope little girls will see my doll and be inspired to take up and continue to enjoy sports.'' Also read: Now, a Barbie doll named after Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar The athlete said that she was ''taken aback by the likeness!'' and she hoped it would ''inspire girls to take up sports''. "Growing up, sportswomen were less visible in the media and there is still a gap when it comes to women's sports, which is why representation is so important," she added. Dina holds the British records in the 100 metres with a time of 10.83 seconds along with 200 metres at 21.88 seconds and 4x100 metres at 41.77 seconds. Barbie manufacturer Mattel has been redefining the appearances of the dolls it is producing. In January, it released a number of new designs including a doll with no hair and one with the skin condition vitiligo.

Barbie launches new model to honour Britain's fastest runner

New <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/now-a-barbie-doll-named-after-indian-gymnast-dipa-karmakar-202588">Barbie</a> doll models with vitiligo and another with no hair have been unveiled on Wednesday by Mattel, the company which produces the popular toy.

The makers have introduced the latest models in a bid to showcase ''a multi-dimensional view of beauty and fashion''.

They broaden the diversity of the company's range and are interesting additions to the Barbie fashionistas line.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/now-a-barbie-doll-named-after-indian-gymnast-dipa-karmakar-202588">Now, a Barbie doll named after Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar</a>

Vitiligo is a peculiar skin condition that causes patches of skin to lose their pigment.

<img alt="Barbie doll with vitiligo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e1e7f16e-c15b-41ce-a4b7-a1f086f2f5b4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-01-30T142839.378.jpg" />

(Image courtesy: Mattel)

Vitiligo dolls which debuted on the barbie Instagram page last year became its most "liked" post ever.

Similarly, hair-less barbies have also been featured in the fashionistas line.&nbsp;

They were first introduced in 2015.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-bid-to-encourage-girls-to-think-big-barbie-introduces-doll-on-first-italian-woman-in-space-234528">Barbie introduces doll on first Italian woman in space</a>

This will help people going through similar conditions to relate to these dolls.

It will also redefine the standards of conventional and stereotypical beauty.

According to Lisa Mcknight, the global head of Barbie and Dolls portfolio at Mattel, Incorporation, ''Barbie continuously evolves itself as the most diverse doll line on the market and it stands for better and more varied representation''.

''The ultimate aim is to initiate a powerful conversation around these conditions which are still considered a taboo in the society at large,'' she added.

The company had also introduced a doll wearing hijab in 2017.

New Barbie doll models with vitiligo and another with no hair have been unveiled on Wednesday by Mattel, the company which produces the popular toy. The makers have introduced the latest models in a bid to showcase ''a multi-dimensional view of beauty and fashion''.

New Barbie doll models with vitiligo and another with no hair have been unveiled on Wednesday by Mattel, the company which produces the popular toy. The makers have introduced the latest models in a bid to showcase ''a multi-dimensional view of beauty and fashion''. They broaden the diversity of the company's range and are interesting additions to the Barbie fashionistas line. Also read: Now, a Barbie doll named after Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar Vitiligo is a peculiar skin condition that causes patches of skin to lose their pigment. (Image courtesy: Mattel) Vitiligo dolls which debuted on the barbie Instagram page last year became its most "liked" post ever. Similarly, hair-less barbies have also been featured in the fashionistas line. They were first introduced in 2015. Also read: Barbie introduces doll on first Italian woman in space This will help people going through similar conditions to relate to these dolls. It will also redefine the standards of conventional and stereotypical beauty. According to Lisa Mcknight, the global head of Barbie and Dolls portfolio at Mattel, Incorporation, ''Barbie continuously evolves itself as the most diverse doll line on the market and it stands for better and more varied representation''. ''The ultimate aim is to initiate a powerful conversation around these conditions which are still considered a taboo in the society at large,'' she added. The company had also introduced a doll wearing hijab in 2017.

In a bid to boost diversity, Barbie introduces dolls with vitiligo and no hair

Barbie turns 60 and is still going strong

Barbie is turning 60, and in an effort to keep up with the times a new range of dolls are being released, including career women and role models to inspire young girls.&nbsp;

An astronaut, a football player and a news anchor were among the new-look, high-achieving Barbies unveiled by toy company Mattel at an anniversary event in Singapore Friday.

A series of successful women have also had dolls made in their image to mark six decades of Barbie.&nbsp;

These include world number one tennis player Naomi Osaka, American actress Yara Shahidi, and the first ever Maori Barbie, modelled after New Zealand sports journalist Melodie Robinson.&nbsp;

"Barbie has come a long way as a role model to show girls that they have choices and can achieve any careers," said Mattel Southeast Asia marketing chief Chris Chan.

Mattel has marked the anniversary by partnering with the Singapore Flyer -- a giant Ferris wheel in the city-state -- to temporarily turn one of the ride's cabins Barbie-themed.

Barbie has attracted her fair share of controversy, not least her pin-up measurements put her at odds with a women's rights movement fighting against unattainable beauty standards.

Mattel has made many changes in the years since, introducing multiple body types and skin tones.

These days more than half of the Barbie dolls sold around the world have neither blonde hair nor blue eyes, according to the company.

More than one billion Barbies have been sold since her debut at the American Toy Fair in New York on March 9, 1959.

Barbie is turning 60, and in an effort to keep up with the times a new range of dolls are being released, including career women and role models to inspire young girls.

Barbie is turning 60, and in an effort to keep up with the times a new range of dolls are being released, including career women and role models to inspire young girls. An astronaut, a football player and a news anchor were among the new-look, high-achieving Barbies unveiled by toy company Mattel at an anniversary event in Singapore Friday. A series of successful women have also had dolls made in their image to mark six decades of Barbie. These include world number one tennis player Naomi Osaka, American actress Yara Shahidi, and the first ever Maori Barbie, modelled after New Zealand sports journalist Melodie Robinson. "Barbie has come a long way as a role model to show girls that they have choices and can achieve any careers," said Mattel Southeast Asia marketing chief Chris Chan. Mattel has marked the anniversary by partnering with the Singapore Flyer -- a giant Ferris wheel in the city-state -- to temporarily turn one of the ride's cabins Barbie-themed. Barbie has attracted her fair share of controversy, not least her pin-up measurements put her at odds with a women's rights movement fighting against unattainable beauty standards. Mattel has made many changes in the years since, introducing multiple body types and skin tones. These days more than half of the Barbie dolls sold around the world have neither blonde hair nor blue eyes, according to the company. More than one billion Barbies have been sold since her debut at the American Toy Fair in New York on March 9, 1959.

Astronaut, football player: Barbie turns 60 with career dolls and role models

She is turning 60 this year and still doesn't have a single wrinkle.

 
Blonde or brunette, slender or curvy, black or white, princess or president, Barbie is a forever favorite for young girls, even if she has caused controversy over the years. 
The iconic doll has evolved to keep up with the times -- check out her Twitter feed.

 
And despite fierce competition in the toy industry, 58 million Barbies are sold each year in more than 150 countries. 
"In an industry where success today is three to five years, 60 years is a huge deal!" said Nathan Baynard, director of global brand marketing for Barbie. 
Around the world, Barbie is as universally known as Coca-Cola or McDonald's, Baynard said during a recent visit to Mattel's design studio in El Segundo, a suburb of Los Angeles.

 
In all, more than one billion Barbie dolls have been sold since she made her debut at the American Toy Fair in New York on March 9, 1959. 
She was invented by Ruth Handler, the co-founder of Mattel, who was inspired by her own children to create the doll.

 
"Her daughter Barbara was limited in the choices of her toys -- the only ones were baby dolls," Baynard recounted.

 
"The only role she could imagine through that play was caregiver, mother," whereas Handler's son "could imagine being an astronaut, cowboy, pilot, surgeon." Barbie is, of course, a shortened version of Barbara.

 
The doll was supposed to teach girls "that they had choices, that they could be anything. In 1959, it was a radical idea!" Baynard said. 
Barbie was an instant success. In the first year, 300,000 dolls were sold, he added.

 
From the start, Barbie's pinup measurements didn't immediately seem all that feminist and would spark criticism for decades to come. 
"In 1959, her body structure was exaggerated to match the aesthetics of the time and the fabric available," said Barbie designer Carlyle Nuera.

 
Since the blonde beauty first hit stores, and after a torrent of complaints about what was seen as unrealistic proportions, Mattel has made many changes -- introducing multiple body types and dozens of skin tones.

 
MG Lord, an author of "Forever Barbie," also argued that the original criticisms were unwarranted.

 
"She is what the child wants her to be. How a child sees the Barbie doll is often framed by how the mother of that child feels about the idea of femininity," Lord told AFP. 
"The problem here is not an 11.5-inch plastic object. The problem is the larger culture and the idea of femininity." In 1965, four years before Neil Armstrong walked on the Moon, Barbie became an astronaut. In 1968, the first black Barbie doll, a friend named Christie, hit store shelves.

 
Lisa McKnight, senior vice president, and global general manager for the Barbie brand said that today, 55 percent of the dolls sold around the world have neither blonde hair nor blue eyes. 
Mattel has more than 100 people working in the El Segundo design studio, a massive hangar-like building wedged between Los Angeles International Airport and a freeway.

 
Designers begin with a simple sketch. From there on, every bit of a prototype is made by an army of experts -- from sculpting the doll using state-of-the-art software and 3D printing to painting the face, styling the hair, choosing fabrics and crafting the clothing patterns.

 
The entire design process for a new Barbie can last 12 to 18 months. Then, the prototype is sent from the California workshop to factories in China and Indonesia for mass production.

 
"Sometimes, you see her on a shelf and then it gets back to you: oh yes, I designed this one!" Nuera said with a smile. 
Barbie is not only a toy store success -- she has a massive social media presence, and is something of an "influencer," with millions of followers. 
She has an actual identity: Barbie Millicent Roberts, who hails from the made-up town of Willows in the Midwest.

 
And now, she speaks directly to girls about her life and important current topics. 
In 2018, the brand launched a sweeping campaign to help young girls close the so-called "Dream Gap" -- using Barbie to teach them to believe in themselves, and not to buy into sexist gender stereotypes.

 
Barbie has a hair stylist, makeup artist, and photographer who travel with her "for real" in the United States and abroad for Instagram photo sessions (check out @barbiestyle). The account has nearly two million followers.

 
So, does Barbie have it all as she hits 60, but remains forever young, still single and without kids (so far)? "The narrative of the Barbie brand is that she's a young woman and she's independent and pursuing careers," McKnight said.

She is turning 60 this year and still doesn't have a single wrinkle. Blonde or brunette, slender or curvy, black or white, princess or president, Barbie is a forever favorite for young girls, even if she has caused controversy over the years.

She is turning 60 this year and still doesn't have a single wrinkle. Blonde or brunette, slender or curvy, black or white, princess or president, Barbie is a forever favorite for young girls, even if she has caused controversy over the years. The iconic doll has evolved to keep up with the times -- check out her Twitter feed. And despite fierce competition in the toy industry, 58 million Barbies are sold each year in more than 150 countries. "In an industry where success today is three to five years, 60 years is a huge deal!" said Nathan Baynard, director of global brand marketing for Barbie. Around the world, Barbie is as universally known as Coca-Cola or McDonald's, Baynard said during a recent visit to Mattel's design studio in El Segundo, a suburb of Los Angeles. In all, more than one billion Barbie dolls have been sold since she made her debut at the American Toy Fair in New York on March 9, 1959. She was invented by Ruth Handler, the co-founder of Mattel, who was inspired by her own children to create the doll. "Her daughter Barbara was limited in the choices of her toys -- the only ones were baby dolls," Baynard recounted. "The only role she could imagine through that play was caregiver, mother," whereas Handler's son "could imagine being an astronaut, cowboy, pilot, surgeon." Barbie is, of course, a shortened version of Barbara. The doll was supposed to teach girls "that they had choices, that they could be anything. In 1959, it was a radical idea!" Baynard said. Barbie was an instant success. In the first year, 300,000 dolls were sold, he added. From the start, Barbie's pinup measurements didn't immediately seem all that feminist and would spark criticism for decades to come. "In 1959, her body structure was exaggerated to match the aesthetics of the time and the fabric available," said Barbie designer Carlyle Nuera. Since the blonde beauty first hit stores, and after a torrent of complaints about what was seen as unrealistic proportions, Mattel has made many changes -- introducing multiple body types and dozens of skin tones. MG Lord, an author of "Forever Barbie," also argued that the original criticisms were unwarranted. "She is what the child wants her to be. How a child sees the Barbie doll is often framed by how the mother of that child feels about the idea of femininity," Lord told AFP. "The problem here is not an 11.5-inch plastic object. The problem is the larger culture and the idea of femininity." In 1965, four years before Neil Armstrong walked on the Moon, Barbie became an astronaut. In 1968, the first black Barbie doll, a friend named Christie, hit store shelves. Lisa McKnight, senior vice president, and global general manager for the Barbie brand said that today, 55 percent of the dolls sold around the world have neither blonde hair nor blue eyes. Mattel has more than 100 people working in the El Segundo design studio, a massive hangar-like building wedged between Los Angeles International Airport and a freeway. Designers begin with a simple sketch. From there on, every bit of a prototype is made by an army of experts -- from sculpting the doll using state-of-the-art software and 3D printing to painting the face, styling the hair, choosing fabrics and crafting the clothing patterns. The entire design process for a new Barbie can last 12 to 18 months. Then, the prototype is sent from the California workshop to factories in China and Indonesia for mass production. "Sometimes, you see her on a shelf and then it gets back to you: oh yes, I designed this one!" Nuera said with a smile. Barbie is not only a toy store success -- she has a massive social media presence, and is something of an "influencer," with millions of followers. She has an actual identity: Barbie Millicent Roberts, who hails from the made-up town of Willows in the Midwest. And now, she speaks directly to girls about her life and important current topics. In 2018, the brand launched a sweeping campaign to help young girls close the so-called "Dream Gap" -- using Barbie to teach them to believe in themselves, and not to buy into sexist gender stereotypes. Barbie has a hair stylist, makeup artist, and photographer who travel with her "for real" in the United States and abroad for Instagram photo sessions (check out @barbiestyle). The account has nearly two million followers. So, does Barbie have it all as she hits 60, but remains forever young, still single and without kids (so far)? "The narrative of the Barbie brand is that she's a young woman and she's independent and pursuing careers," McKnight said.

Barbie will soon be 60 - and is still going strong

Australian actress Margot Robbie is to play Barbie in the first live-action feature movie about the iconic and controversial doll, who has enjoyed multiple careers in her 60-year lifetime. 
 
Toymaker Mattel and movie studio Warner Bros on Tuesday announced they were partnering to make the film, which will star the Oscar-nominated actress. Robbie, 28, will also co-produce the film, the companies said in a statement. 
 
No plot, title or release date was announced for the film, which comes 60 years after the adult-figured Barbie fashion doll was launched in March 1959. 
 
Robbie, who was Oscar-nominated for her starring role in the 2017 ice-skating movie 'I, Tonya'&nbsp;and who appeared in the 2016 superhero movie 'Suicide Squad,'&nbsp;said she hoped the film would 'have a tremendously positive impact on children and audiences worldwide.' 
 
"Barbie has empowered kids to imagine themselves in aspirational roles from a princess to president," the actress said in a statement. 
 
Barbie has adopted more than 200 careers in her lifetime, including robotics engineer, astronaut and teacher.&nbsp; 
 
She is the best-known doll in the world and a cultural icon celebrated by the likes of Andy Warhol, the Paris Louvre museum, and the 1997 satirical song 'Barbie Girl'&nbsp;by Scandinavian pop group Aqua. 
 
But critics said her curvy body promoted an unrealistic image for young girls, and sales began dropping in 2014, leading California-based Mattel to add a wider variety of skin tones, body shapes, hijab-wearing dolls and science kits to make the products more educational. 
 
The live-action Barbie film is the first venture from the recently established Mattel Films unit set up in September to develop the franchise of Barbie and other toys, such as Hot Wheels and American Girl.&nbsp;

Australian actress Margot Robbie is to play Barbie in the first live-action feature movie about the iconic and controversial doll, who has enjoyed multiple careers in her 60-year lifetime.

Australian actress Margot Robbie is to play Barbie in the first live-action feature movie about the iconic and controversial doll, who has enjoyed multiple careers in her 60-year lifetime. Toymaker Mattel and movie studio Warner Bros on Tuesday announced they were partnering to make the film, which will star the Oscar-nominated actress. Robbie, 28, will also co-produce the film, the companies said in a statement. No plot, title or release date was announced for the film, which comes 60 years after the adult-figured Barbie fashion doll was launched in March 1959. Robbie, who was Oscar-nominated for her starring role in the 2017 ice-skating movie 'I, Tonya' and who appeared in the 2016 superhero movie 'Suicide Squad,' said she hoped the film would 'have a tremendously positive impact on children and audiences worldwide.' "Barbie has empowered kids to imagine themselves in aspirational roles from a princess to president," the actress said in a statement. Barbie has adopted more than 200 careers in her lifetime, including robotics engineer, astronaut and teacher. She is the best-known doll in the world and a cultural icon celebrated by the likes of Andy Warhol, the Paris Louvre museum, and the 1997 satirical song 'Barbie Girl' by Scandinavian pop group Aqua. But critics said her curvy body promoted an unrealistic image for young girls, and sales began dropping in 2014, leading California-based Mattel to add a wider variety of skin tones, body shapes, hijab-wearing dolls and science kits to make the products more educational. The live-action Barbie film is the first venture from the recently established Mattel Films unit set up in September to develop the franchise of Barbie and other toys, such as Hot Wheels and American Girl.

Margot Robbie to play Barbie in doll's first live-action film

She is turning 60 this year and still doesn't have a single wrinkle.

Blonde or brunette, slender or curvy, black or white, princess or president, Barbie is a forever favourite for young girls, even if she has caused controversy over the years.

The iconic doll has evolved to keep up with the times -- check out her Twitter feed.

And despite fierce competition in the toy industry, 58 million Barbies are sold each year in more than 150 countries.

"In an industry where success today is three to five years, 60 years is a huge deal!" said Nathan Baynard, director of global brand marketing for Barbie.

Around the world, Barbie is as universally known as Coca-Cola or McDonald's, Baynard said during a recent visit to Mattel's design studio in El Segundo, a suburb of Los Angeles.

In all, more than one billion Barbie dolls have been sold since she made her debut at the American Toy Fair in New York on March 9, 1959.

She was invented by Ruth Handler, the co-founder of Mattel, who was inspired by her own children to create the doll.

"Her daughter Barbara was limited in the choices of her toys -- the only ones were baby dolls," Baynard recounted.&nbsp;

"The only role she could imagine through that play was caregiver, mother," whereas Handler's son "could imagine being an astronaut, cowboy, pilot, surgeon."

Barbie is, of course, a shortened version of Barbara.&nbsp;

The doll was supposed to teach girls "that they had choices, that they could be anything. In 1959, it was a radical idea!" Baynard said.

Barbie was an instant success. In the first year, 300,000 dolls were sold, he added.

- Unattainable ideal? -

From the start, Barbie's pinup measurements didn't immediately seem all that feminist, and would spark criticism for decades to come.&nbsp;

"In 1959, her body structure was exaggerated to match the aesthetics of the time and the fabric available," said Barbie designer Carlyle Nuera.

Since the blonde beauty first hit stores, and after a torrent of complaints over what was seen as unrealistic proportions, Mattel has made many changes -- introducing multiple body types and dozens of skin tones.

MG Lord, author of "Forever Barbie," also argued that the original criticisms were unwarranted.

"She is what the child wants her to be. How a child sees the Barbie doll is often framed by how the mother of that child feels about the idea of femininity," Lord told AFP.

"The problem here is not an 11.5-inch plastic object. The problem is the larger culture and the idea of femininity."

In 1965, four years before Neil Armstrong walked on the Moon, Barbie became an astronaut. In 1968, the first black Barbie doll, a friend named Christie, hit store shelves.

Lisa McKnight, senior vice president and global general manager for the Barbie brand, said that today, 55 per cent of the dolls sold around the world have neither blonde hair nor blue eyes.

Mattel has more than 100 people working in the El Segundo design studio, a massive hangar-like building wedged between Los Angeles International Airport and a freeway.

Designers begin with a simple sketch. From there on, every bit of a prototype is made by an army of experts -- from sculpting the doll using state-of-the-art software and 3D printing to painting the face, styling the hair, choosing fabrics and crafting the clothing patterns.

The entire design process for a new Barbie can last 12 to 18 months. Then, the prototype is sent from the California workshop to factories in China and Indonesia for mass production.&nbsp;

"Sometimes, you see her on a shelf and then it gets back to you: oh yes, I designed this one!" Nuera said with a smile.

Instagram photo shoots

Barbie is not only a toy store success -- she has a massive social media presence, and is something of an "influencer," with millions of followers.

She has an actual identity: Barbie Millicent Roberts, who hails from the made-up town of Willows in the Midwest.

And now, she speaks directly to girls about her life, and important current topics.

In 2018, the brand launched a sweeping campaign to help young girls close the so-called "Dream Gap" -- using Barbie to teach them to believe in themselves, and not to buy into sexist gender stereotypes.

Barbie has a hair stylist, makeup artist and photographer who travel with her "for real" in the United States and abroad for Instagram photo sessions (check out @barbiestyle). The account has nearly two million followers.

So, does Barbie have it all as she hits 60, but remains forever young, still single and without kids (so far)?&nbsp;

"The narrative of the Barbie brand is that she's a young woman and she's independent and pursuing careers," McKnight said.

She is turning 60 this year and still doesn't have a single wrinkle. Blonde or brunette, slender or curvy, black or white, princess or president, Barbie is a forever favourite for young girls, even if she has caused controversy over the years.

She is turning 60 this year and still doesn't have a single wrinkle. Blonde or brunette, slender or curvy, black or white, princess or president, Barbie is a forever favourite for young girls, even if she has caused controversy over the years. The iconic doll has evolved to keep up with the times -- check out her Twitter feed. And despite fierce competition in the toy industry, 58 million Barbies are sold each year in more than 150 countries. "In an industry where success today is three to five years, 60 years is a huge deal!" said Nathan Baynard, director of global brand marketing for Barbie. Around the world, Barbie is as universally known as Coca-Cola or McDonald's, Baynard said during a recent visit to Mattel's design studio in El Segundo, a suburb of Los Angeles. In all, more than one billion Barbie dolls have been sold since she made her debut at the American Toy Fair in New York on March 9, 1959. She was invented by Ruth Handler, the co-founder of Mattel, who was inspired by her own children to create the doll. "Her daughter Barbara was limited in the choices of her toys -- the only ones were baby dolls," Baynard recounted. "The only role she could imagine through that play was caregiver, mother," whereas Handler's son "could imagine being an astronaut, cowboy, pilot, surgeon." Barbie is, of course, a shortened version of Barbara. The doll was supposed to teach girls "that they had choices, that they could be anything. In 1959, it was a radical idea!" Baynard said. Barbie was an instant success. In the first year, 300,000 dolls were sold, he added. - Unattainable ideal? - From the start, Barbie's pinup measurements didn't immediately seem all that feminist, and would spark criticism for decades to come. "In 1959, her body structure was exaggerated to match the aesthetics of the time and the fabric available," said Barbie designer Carlyle Nuera. Since the blonde beauty first hit stores, and after a torrent of complaints over what was seen as unrealistic proportions, Mattel has made many changes -- introducing multiple body types and dozens of skin tones. MG Lord, author of "Forever Barbie," also argued that the original criticisms were unwarranted. "She is what the child wants her to be. How a child sees the Barbie doll is often framed by how the mother of that child feels about the idea of femininity," Lord told AFP. "The problem here is not an 11.5-inch plastic object. The problem is the larger culture and the idea of femininity." In 1965, four years before Neil Armstrong walked on the Moon, Barbie became an astronaut. In 1968, the first black Barbie doll, a friend named Christie, hit store shelves. Lisa McKnight, senior vice president and global general manager for the Barbie brand, said that today, 55 per cent of the dolls sold around the world have neither blonde hair nor blue eyes. Mattel has more than 100 people working in the El Segundo design studio, a massive hangar-like building wedged between Los Angeles International Airport and a freeway. Designers begin with a simple sketch. From there on, every bit of a prototype is made by an army of experts -- from sculpting the doll using state-of-the-art software and 3D printing to painting the face, styling the hair, choosing fabrics and crafting the clothing patterns. The entire design process for a new Barbie can last 12 to 18 months. Then, the prototype is sent from the California workshop to factories in China and Indonesia for mass production. "Sometimes, you see her on a shelf and then it gets back to you: oh yes, I designed this one!" Nuera said with a smile. Instagram photo shoots Barbie is not only a toy store success -- she has a massive social media presence, and is something of an "influencer," with millions of followers. She has an actual identity: Barbie Millicent Roberts, who hails from the made-up town of Willows in the Midwest. And now, she speaks directly to girls about her life, and important current topics. In 2018, the brand launched a sweeping campaign to help young girls close the so-called "Dream Gap" -- using Barbie to teach them to believe in themselves, and not to buy into sexist gender stereotypes. Barbie has a hair stylist, makeup artist and photographer who travel with her "for real" in the United States and abroad for Instagram photo sessions (check out @barbiestyle). The account has nearly two million followers. So, does Barbie have it all as she hits 60, but remains forever young, still single and without kids (so far)? "The narrative of the Barbie brand is that she's a young woman and she's independent and pursuing careers," McKnight said.

One of the most loved doll, Barbie will soon be 60 and is still going strong

Over the years, Barbie has taken on many roles: beach beauty, scientist, even president of the United States. And now, she will work to help young girls close the so-called "Dream Gap."&nbsp;

The doll's maker Mattel on Tuesday announced a sweeping campaign in collaboration with university researchers to teach young girls to believe in themselves, and not to buy into sexist gender stereotypes.

"Research has identified that starting at age five, many girls are less likely than boys to view their own gender as smart and begin to lose confidence in their own competence," Mattel said in a statement.

The company will fund research and work on "rallying a community around supporting girls" through its multi-year Dream Gap Project.

Mattel unveiled a new ad featuring young girls holding placards that read "Close the Dream Gap" and ties into Barbie's "You Can Be Anything" campaign.

The brand is working with researchers at New York University and hopes to extend that initiative in other partnerships around the world.&nbsp;

It also will highlight "at least 10 empowering female role models each year globally."

Though Barbie is often criticised for perpetuating negative stereotypes with her impossibly lean physique, the brand has worked hard in recent years to portray a modern image.

In early 2016, the California-based company launched Barbie versions in three different body shapes -- tall, petite and curvy -- and in seven different skin tones.

This year's featured career is the robotics engineer. Another new line showcased "Inspiring Women" such as aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart and black NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson.

"Since 1959, Barbie has inspired the limitless potential in every girl," said Lisa McKnight, general manager and senior vice president for Barbie at Mattel.

"We believe that empowering them at a young age is a catalyst to unlocking their full potential."

In July, Mattel announced that it was cutting 2,200 jobs after reporting another steep quarterly loss, despite rising Barbie sales.&nbsp;

The company, which also produces Matchbox cars and Fisher-Price educational toys, has faced tough competition from video game makers and other electronic toys. 
&nbsp;

Over the years, Barbie has taken on many roles: beach beauty, scientist, even president of the United States. And now, she will work to help young girls close the so-called "Dream Gap.

Over the years, Barbie has taken on many roles: beach beauty, scientist, even president of the United States. And now, she will work to help young girls close the so-called "Dream Gap." The doll's maker Mattel on Tuesday announced a sweeping campaign in collaboration with university researchers to teach young girls to believe in themselves, and not to buy into sexist gender stereotypes. "Research has identified that starting at age five, many girls are less likely than boys to view their own gender as smart and begin to lose confidence in their own competence," Mattel said in a statement. The company will fund research and work on "rallying a community around supporting girls" through its multi-year Dream Gap Project. Mattel unveiled a new ad featuring young girls holding placards that read "Close the Dream Gap" and ties into Barbie's "You Can Be Anything" campaign. The brand is working with researchers at New York University and hopes to extend that initiative in other partnerships around the world. It also will highlight "at least 10 empowering female role models each year globally." Though Barbie is often criticised for perpetuating negative stereotypes with her impossibly lean physique, the brand has worked hard in recent years to portray a modern image. In early 2016, the California-based company launched Barbie versions in three different body shapes -- tall, petite and curvy -- and in seven different skin tones. This year's featured career is the robotics engineer. Another new line showcased "Inspiring Women" such as aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart and black NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson. "Since 1959, Barbie has inspired the limitless potential in every girl," said Lisa McKnight, general manager and senior vice president for Barbie at Mattel. "We believe that empowering them at a young age is a catalyst to unlocking their full potential." In July, Mattel announced that it was cutting 2,200 jobs after reporting another steep quarterly loss, despite rising Barbie sales. The company, which also produces Matchbox cars and Fisher-Price educational toys, has faced tough competition from video game makers and other electronic toys.

Barbie deployed to close 'Dream Gap' for young girls

Australian actor Margot Robbie is in talks to star in `Barbie`, a movie based on Mattel`s globally recognised doll.

After a movie about the popular doll was in development for years at Sony, Mattel is partnering with Warner Bros.

&nbsp;Robbie would also produce the project through her LuckyChap banner, reported The Hollywood Reporter.

It is, however, yet not known if Mattel is sticking to the original script, which had set Amy Schumer to star, who dropped out due to scheduling conflicts.

&nbsp;It was later reported Anne Hathaway would replace Schumer.

As per sources `Wonder Woman` director Patty Jenkins is circling the Warners project but no substantive talks or offers that have taken place.Apart from `Barbie` Robbie is all geared up for her upcoming movie `Birds of Prey` which is set to hit the big screen on February 7, 2020.

&nbsp;Robbie will reprise her `Suicide Squad` role as Harley Quinn, with Cathy Yan directing the film. &nbsp;

Australian actor Margot Robbie is in talks to star in `Barbie`, a movie based on Mattel`s globally recognised doll. After a movie about the popular doll was in development for years at Sony, Mattel is partnering with Warner Bros.

Australian actor Margot Robbie is in talks to star in `Barbie`, a movie based on Mattel`s globally recognised doll. After a movie about the popular doll was in development for years at Sony, Mattel is partnering with Warner Bros. Robbie would also produce the project through her LuckyChap banner, reported The Hollywood Reporter. It is, however, yet not known if Mattel is sticking to the original script, which had set Amy Schumer to star, who dropped out due to scheduling conflicts. It was later reported Anne Hathaway would replace Schumer. As per sources `Wonder Woman` director Patty Jenkins is circling the Warners project but no substantive talks or offers that have taken place.Apart from `Barbie` Robbie is all geared up for her upcoming movie `Birds of Prey` which is set to hit the big screen on February 7, 2020. Robbie will reprise her `Suicide Squad` role as Harley Quinn, with Cathy Yan directing the film.

Margot Robbie to star in 'Barbie'

The new Frida Kahlo Barbie raised eyebrows, and indeed unibrows, from the moment it was announced.

Now the late Mexican artist&#39;s family alleges the rights to her image have been stolen, and accuses toymaker Mattel of misrepresenting her appearance and ignoring what she stood for.

Mattel announced on Wednesday that Kahlo, a painter known for her searingly intimate portraits as well as her defiantly unplucked eyebrows, would be included in its newest collection of Barbie dolls.

It was perhaps an unlikely choice for the maker of the famously buxom blonde doll, given that Kahlo was known for upending gender norms and traditional ideas about how women should look and act.

Released just ahead of International Women&#39;s Day, the &quot;Inspiring Women&quot; collection includes dolls based on Kahlo, aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, African-American mathematician Katherine Johnson and other historical figures.

But Kahlo&#39;s family soon issued a statement objecting to the doll.

&quot;Mrs Mara Romeo, great-niece of Frida Kahlo, is the sole owner of the rights of the image of the illustrious Mexican painter Frida Kahlo,&quot; it said.

&quot;The company Mattel does not have the proper authorization to use the image of Frida Kahlo,&quot; it added, threatening to take &quot;necessary measures&quot; against the California-based toymaker.

However, an American company called the Frida Kahlo Corporation insisted it was the legitimate owner of the rights.

&quot;Mattel has worked in close partnership with the Frida Kahlo Corporation, the owner of all rights related to the name and identity of Frida Kahlo, on the creation of this doll,&quot; it said in a statement.

Romeo&#39;s lawyer Pablo Sangri said the dispute arose after the family established the Frida Kahlo Corporation in 2005, in partnership with another company called Casablanca Distributors.

The latter has violated their now-expired contract by failing to inform Kahlo&#39;s relatives about the uses of her &quot;brand,&quot; he told AFP.

And the contract never granted the Corporation rights to Kahlo&#39;s image in the first place, only &quot;certain uses of her name,&quot; he said.

&quot;The Frida Kahlo Corporation doesn&#39;t hold, never held and will never hold the rights to Frida&#39;s image.&quot;But the problem goes deeper than just a dispute over image rights, said Romeo, the granddaughter of Kahlo&#39;s sister Cristina.

Kahlo was known for her assertive embrace of her Mexican identity and her unabashed, unmanicured femininity.

&quot;I would have liked the doll to have traits more like Frida&#39;s, not this doll with light-colored eyes. I would have liked her to have a unibrow, for her clothes to be made by Mexican artisans,&quot; she told AFP.

&quot;It should be a doll that represents everything my aunt represented, her strength. It should be a Frida that represents Mexico.&quot;

With her slender face and almond eyes -- topped by just the slightest hint of hair between her brows -- the Frida Kahlo Barbie looks only vaguely like the real-life Frida.

In recent years, Kahlo&#39;s image has been stamped onto an explosion of consumer products: nail polish, bags, shoes, coffee mugs and much, much more.

Her instantly recognizable look -- unibrow, thick black braids, flowery, hand-embroidered Mexican &quot;tehuana&quot; dresses -- and the boldness with which she wore it have turned her into a pop icon.

But Romeo said the companies behind such products are making them without the family&#39;s permission, and violating Kahlo&#39;s legacy in the process.

&quot;These products don&#39;t mesh with what Frida was. They should contribute something to the world,&quot; she said.

Kahlo (1907-1954), the wife of the Mexican muralist Diego Rivera, is today considered one of the great painters of the 20th century, particularly for her self-portraits, often brimming with pain and isolation. 
&nbsp;

The late Mexican artist's family alleges the rights to her image have been stolen and accuses toymaker Mattel of misrepresenting her appearance

The new Frida Kahlo Barbie raised eyebrows, and indeed unibrows, from the moment it was announced. Now the late Mexican artist's family alleges the rights to her image have been stolen, and accuses toymaker Mattel of misrepresenting her appearance and ignoring what she stood for. Mattel announced on Wednesday that Kahlo, a painter known for her searingly intimate portraits as well as her defiantly unplucked eyebrows, would be included in its newest collection of Barbie dolls. It was perhaps an unlikely choice for the maker of the famously buxom blonde doll, given that Kahlo was known for upending gender norms and traditional ideas about how women should look and act. Released just ahead of International Women's Day, the "Inspiring Women" collection includes dolls based on Kahlo, aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, African-American mathematician Katherine Johnson and other historical figures. But Kahlo's family soon issued a statement objecting to the doll. "Mrs Mara Romeo, great-niece of Frida Kahlo, is the sole owner of the rights of the image of the illustrious Mexican painter Frida Kahlo," it said. "The company Mattel does not have the proper authorization to use the image of Frida Kahlo," it added, threatening to take "necessary measures" against the California-based toymaker. However, an American company called the Frida Kahlo Corporation insisted it was the legitimate owner of the rights. "Mattel has worked in close partnership with the Frida Kahlo Corporation, the owner of all rights related to the name and identity of Frida Kahlo, on the creation of this doll," it said in a statement. Romeo's lawyer Pablo Sangri said the dispute arose after the family established the Frida Kahlo Corporation in 2005, in partnership with another company called Casablanca Distributors. The latter has violated their now-expired contract by failing to inform Kahlo's relatives about the uses of her "brand," he told AFP. And the contract never granted the Corporation rights to Kahlo's image in the first place, only "certain uses of her name," he said. "The Frida Kahlo Corporation doesn't hold, never held and will never hold the rights to Frida's image."But the problem goes deeper than just a dispute over image rights, said Romeo, the granddaughter of Kahlo's sister Cristina. Kahlo was known for her assertive embrace of her Mexican identity and her unabashed, unmanicured femininity. "I would have liked the doll to have traits more like Frida's, not this doll with light-colored eyes. I would have liked her to have a unibrow, for her clothes to be made by Mexican artisans," she told AFP. "It should be a doll that represents everything my aunt represented, her strength. It should be a Frida that represents Mexico." With her slender face and almond eyes -- topped by just the slightest hint of hair between her brows -- the Frida Kahlo Barbie looks only vaguely like the real-life Frida. In recent years, Kahlo's image has been stamped onto an explosion of consumer products: nail polish, bags, shoes, coffee mugs and much, much more. Her instantly recognizable look -- unibrow, thick black braids, flowery, hand-embroidered Mexican "tehuana" dresses -- and the boldness with which she wore it have turned her into a pop icon. But Romeo said the companies behind such products are making them without the family's permission, and violating Kahlo's legacy in the process. "These products don't mesh with what Frida was. They should contribute something to the world," she said. Kahlo (1907-1954), the wife of the Mexican muralist Diego Rivera, is today considered one of the great painters of the 20th century, particularly for her self-portraits, often brimming with pain and isolation.

Row erupts over new Frida Kahlo Barbie

One of the world&#39;s biggest doll manufacturer brand, Barbie, introduced a new batch of dolls based on real-life women figures Tuesday, just a day ahead of International Women&#39;s Day.&nbsp;

As a mark of commemorating International Women&#39;s Day that is observed every year on March 8, Barbie introduced new dolls in two categories -- &#39;Inspiring Women&#39;&nbsp;and &#39;Sheroes&#39;. While the first, &#39;Inspiring Women&#39;&nbsp;dolls are historical figures, packed with educational information about the contributions that each woman&nbsp;made to society; the second set &#39;Sheroes&#39; features inspirational contemporary women that highlight real women who have broken boundaries in their field.&nbsp;

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In honor of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalWomensDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalWomensDay</a>, we are committed to shining a light on empowering female role models past and present in an effort to inspire more girls. 
 
Join the conversation by sharing your role models using <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MoreRoleModels?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MoreRoleModels</a>. <a href="https://t.co/5oJnZywk7s">pic.twitter.com/5oJnZywk7s</a>
&mdash; Barbie (@Barbie) <a href="https://twitter.com/Barbie/status/971022728789598210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The new set of dolls by Barbie maker, Mattel comes after they conducted a survey of more than 8,000 mothers around the globe and found that 86% are worried about the kind of role models their daughters are exposed to.

In a press release,&nbsp;Lisa McKnight, senior vice president and general manager of Barbie said,&nbsp;&quot;Girls have always been able to play out different roles and careers with Barbie and we are thrilled to shine a light on real-life role models to remind them that they can be anything.&quot;

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With 86% of US moms worried about the type of role models their daughters are exposed to, we are committed to shining a light on empowering female role models in an effort to inspire more girls. 
 
Join us by sharing your role models using <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MoreRoleModels?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MoreRoleModels</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IWD2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IWD2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/FnEuBsDh23">pic.twitter.com/FnEuBsDh23</a>
&mdash; Barbie (@Barbie) <a href="https://twitter.com/Barbie/status/971113814157660161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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The new set of dolls stand in tandem of Barbie brand&#39;s highest honour&nbsp;--&nbsp; one-of-a-kind doll made in a real woman&#39;s likeness.

Among some of the most notable additions, &#39;Inspiring Women&#39; includes&nbsp;Amelia Earhart (first female aviator to fly across the Atlantic Ocean), Frida Kahlo (renowned Mexican artist and activist),&nbsp;Katherine Johnson (a pioneer in mathematics who broke barriers of race and gender-- also a part of&nbsp;pool of women hired by NASA to work as human &quot;computers&quot; for the first US-manned flight into space).&nbsp;

The &#39;Sheroes&#39; includes&nbsp;Wonder Woman&nbsp;director Patty Jenkins,&nbsp;US snowboarder Chloe Kim, fashion designers, journalists, actresses and entrepreneurs. The women included in the series are from different parts of the world including&nbsp;the United States, Australia, United Kingdom, Turkey, France, China, Germany, Mexico, Poland, Italy and Spain.&nbsp;

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Can&#39;t express how totally mind blowing and delightful it is to have your childhood favorite resemble you!! Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/Barbie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Barbie</a>, for this incredible honor, and for celebrating all kinds of women, everywhere. What a great way to inspire the girls of tomorrow! <a href="https://t.co/X5FteJQltn">pic.twitter.com/X5FteJQltn</a>
&mdash; Patty Jenkins (@PattyJenks) <a href="https://twitter.com/PattyJenks/status/971109371353681926?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Ahh! Im so happy to be honored as a <a href="https://twitter.com/Barbie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Barbie</a> Shero alongside these incredible women! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalWomensDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalWomensDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Barbie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Barbie</a> <a href="https://t.co/U0J7ajM0Sd">pic.twitter.com/U0J7ajM0Sd</a>
&mdash; Chloe Kim (@chloekimsnow) <a href="https://twitter.com/chloekimsnow/status/971103813435346945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Proud to partner with <a href="https://twitter.com/Barbie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Barbie</a> this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalWomensDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalWomensDay</a> to show girls &ndash; YOU CAN BE ANYTHING!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ad</a> <a href="https://t.co/nMdT7jMK8L">pic.twitter.com/nMdT7jMK8L</a>
&mdash; Nicola Adams (@NicolaAdamsOBE) <a href="https://twitter.com/NicolaAdamsOBE/status/971072444361404416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The dolls will start to roll out to stores&nbsp;soon and are currently available for pre-sale on the official Barbie website.

&nbsp;

This is to inspire young girls to identify with real-life role models so that they can become whatever they want to be

One of the world's biggest doll manufacturer brand, Barbie, introduced a new batch of dolls based on real-life women figures Tuesday, just a day ahead of International Women's Day. As a mark of commemorating International Women's Day that is observed every year on March 8, Barbie introduced new dolls in two categories -- 'Inspiring Women' and 'Sheroes'. While the first, 'Inspiring Women' dolls are historical figures, packed with educational information about the contributions that each woman made to society; the second set 'Sheroes' features inspirational contemporary women that highlight real women who have broken boundaries in their field. In honor of #InternationalWomensDay, we are committed to shining a light on empowering female role models past and present in an effort to inspire more girls. Join the conversation by sharing your role models using #MoreRoleModels. pic.twitter.com/5oJnZywk7s — Barbie (@Barbie) March 6, 2018 × The new set of dolls by Barbie maker, Mattel comes after they conducted a survey of more than 8,000 mothers around the globe and found that 86% are worried about the kind of role models their daughters are exposed to. In a press release, Lisa McKnight, senior vice president and general manager of Barbie said, "Girls have always been able to play out different roles and careers with Barbie and we are thrilled to shine a light on real-life role models to remind them that they can be anything." With 86% of US moms worried about the type of role models their daughters are exposed to, we are committed to shining a light on empowering female role models in an effort to inspire more girls. Join us by sharing your role models using #MoreRoleModels. #IWD2018 pic.twitter.com/FnEuBsDh23 — Barbie (@Barbie) March 6, 2018 × The new set of dolls stand in tandem of Barbie brand's highest honour -- one-of-a-kind doll made in a real woman's likeness. Among some of the most notable additions, 'Inspiring Women' includes Amelia Earhart (first female aviator to fly across the Atlantic Ocean), Frida Kahlo (renowned Mexican artist and activist), Katherine Johnson (a pioneer in mathematics who broke barriers of race and gender-- also a part of pool of women hired by NASA to work as human "computers" for the first US-manned flight into space). The 'Sheroes' includes Wonder Woman director Patty Jenkins, US snowboarder Chloe Kim, fashion designers, journalists, actresses and entrepreneurs. The women included in the series are from different parts of the world including the United States, Australia, United Kingdom, Turkey, France, China, Germany, Mexico, Poland, Italy and Spain. Can't express how totally mind blowing and delightful it is to have your childhood favorite resemble you!! Thank you @Barbie, for this incredible honor, and for celebrating all kinds of women, everywhere. What a great way to inspire the girls of tomorrow! pic.twitter.com/X5FteJQltn — Patty Jenkins (@PattyJenks) March 6, 2018 × Ahh! Im so happy to be honored as a @Barbie Shero alongside these incredible women! #InternationalWomensDay #Barbie pic.twitter.com/U0J7ajM0Sd — Chloe Kim (@chloekimsnow) March 6, 2018 × Proud to partner with @Barbie this #InternationalWomensDay to show girls – YOU CAN BE ANYTHING!#Ad pic.twitter.com/nMdT7jMK8L — Nicola Adams (@NicolaAdamsOBE) March 6, 2018 × The dolls will start to roll out to stores soon and are currently available for pre-sale on the official Barbie website.

Women's Day: Barbie honours real-life heroes Frida Kahlo, Patty Jenkins, Amelia Earhart & others

The release of Anne Hathaway starrer live-action Barbie&nbsp;movie has been moved from this year to 2020.The film, which was earlier scheduled to hit the theatres on August 8, 2018, will now release on May 8, 2020, Sony announced, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

This is the second date change for Barbie.&nbsp;The studio had originally dated the movie for June 29, 2018, then moved it back six weeks.Australian filmmaker Alethea Jones is slated to direct the project, which has long been in development at Sony and previously had Amy Schumer in the lead role.

Amy Pascal, Walter F. Parkes and Laurie MacDonald are producing the project based on the classic Barbie mythology.Parkes and MacDonald initiated the original deal with Sony and Mattel in 2014.&nbsp;

The film, which was earlier scheduled to hit the theatres on August 8, 2018, will now release on May 8, 2020

The release of Anne Hathaway starrer live-action Barbie movie has been moved from this year to 2020.The film, which was earlier scheduled to hit the theatres on August 8, 2018, will now release on May 8, 2020, Sony announced, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. This is the second date change for Barbie. The studio had originally dated the movie for June 29, 2018, then moved it back six weeks.Australian filmmaker Alethea Jones is slated to direct the project, which has long been in development at Sony and previously had Amy Schumer in the lead role. Amy Pascal, Walter F. Parkes and Laurie MacDonald are producing the project based on the classic Barbie mythology.Parkes and MacDonald initiated the original deal with Sony and Mattel in 2014.

Anne Hathaway's 'Barbie' movie moves to 2020

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