Barbie is a fashion doll and beloved cultural icon, famous for her blonde hair, blue eyes, and fashionable outfits. She was first introduced by the American toy company Mattel in 1959 and quickly became a staple in many households around the world.
Over the years, Barbie dolls have depicted a variety of careers including astronaut, doctor, and fashion designer, as well as a range of ethnicities. The male counterpart Ken dolls have long given the impression of standard straight relationships, however Barbie’s sexual orientation was never explicitly stated until recently.
In 2021, Mattel revealed that Barbie's new girlfriend is Aimee Song, based on a real-life fashion influencer. This groundbreaking move was part of the company's ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity in their products. Aimee Song, who is openly queer, is now a part of the growing movement to showcase LGBT representation in mainstream culture. The announcement was met with widespread support from fans and advocates alike, who praised Mattel for taking a step toward greater representation and acceptance.