Mattel has expanded its Barbie Signature collection with new collector dolls honoring Marilyn Monroe and Whitney Houston.
Marilyn Monroe Barbie Collector Edition
Mattel released a new Marilyn Monroe Barbie doll priced at 109.49 euros, developed in close collaboration with The Estate of Marilyn Monroe LLC. The doll captures the actress’s appearance during her performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” from the film Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.
The collectible features the character’s pink gown complete with a large bow, gloves, and diamond-inspired jewelry. According to Robert Best, Vice President and Dolls Design Creative Director at Mattel, the release honors Monroe both as a fashion icon and as a pioneering businesswoman who formed her own production company, Marilyn Monroe Productions.
This release follows a series of previous Barbie collaborations celebrating Monroe’s film career issued between 1997 and 2009.
Whitney Houston Signature Doll and Philanthropic Partnership
Mattel introduced a Whitney Houston Barbie Signature doll priced at 77.99 euros, modeled after the singer’s look in the music video for “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me).” The design was developed alongside Pat Houston, executrice testamentaria of the estate and president of the Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation, alongside partner Primary Wave Music.
The doll debuted on August 8 at The Whitley hotel in Atlanta during the fifth annual Legacy of Love Gala, an event noting the singer’s birthday. Nathan Baynard, Vice President and Head of Barbie at Mattel, noted the enduring cultural footprint of the artist’s discography.
As part of the launch, the Barbie Dream Gap project will make a financial contribution to the Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation to fund educational opportunities, grants, and scholarships for young people.
Expanding the Barbie Signature Music Series
Whitney Houston joins a roster of musicians featured in the Barbie Signature music series. Previous honorees in the collector line include Miley Cyrus, Kylie Minogue, Aaliyah, Stevie Nicks, Gloria Estefan, David Bowie, Juan Gabriel, Tina Turner, Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, and Elton John.
Pat Houston commented on the release, stating that the doll serves to underscore the enduring legacy of the performer’s career for newer generations.