Mattel has always been on the cutting edge of evolution with their Barbie dolls. From releasing multi-ethnic dolls to creating dolls of famous Black faces in history, to even partnering with one of the entertainment industry’s go-to creators to release a “Black Barbie” documentary, the company has sought to be an ever-evolving force of inclusion for the community. Their latest venture is one that will unquestionably have fans young and old making purchases. Recently, Barbie releases a new Aaliyah doll, in honor of what would have been the late singer’s 46th birthday.
“One in a Million,” the Barbie official Instagram account began a post, featuring the doll, using the title to one of Aaliyah’s hit songs.
“Today on Aaliyah’s birthday, Barbie honors the Princess of R&B’s unmatched legacy as a once-in-a-generation talent. A rising star who left an unforgettable mark on pop culture, the Aaliyah Barbie doll remembers her iconic style, keeping her influence alive across generations. #Barbie.”
The doll and her style, a collaboration with the singers brother, Rashad Haughton, is inspired by the singers “One in a Million” video.
“I can vividly remember my sister playing with her favorite Barbie dolls for hours when we were kids. She would make them sing, dance, and perform little concerts,” Haughton said in a statement.
“It’s clear to me now that she was imagining dreams that would eventually become reality when she embarked on a career in entertainment at just fifteen years old.” He added, “Inspiring confidence, belief in yourself and embracing who you truly are is the essence of Barbie. My sister would be ecstatic to see her legacy celebrated this way.”
As you can imagine, fans are over the moon with this addition to the Barbie collection.
One Instagram user commented, “So beyond proud and excited! Aaliyah is so deserving of this tribute and I’m incredibly happy that Mattel collaborated with her estate for this…” He ended his post by saying, “Happy Birthday to a Queen,” followed by a single black heart emoji.
Another thanked Mattel, saying,”Thank you for honouring an accomplished & dearly loved woman with this spectacular release.”
One fan commented, “She is so beautiful! My heart is so full seeing how her legacy has lasted decades after her departure. She is so deserving! Happy heavenly birthday @aaliyah.”
The doll was just released today and is already sold out! However, we are sure that that won’t be the case for long.
Aaliyah Dana Haughton, was truly a talented singer, actress, dancer, and model. Known as both the “Princess of R&B” and “Queen of Urban Pop,” she redefined R&B, pop, and hip hop, for generations. Aaliyah’s life was tragically cut way too short on August 25, 2001 as a result of an airplane accident in Marsh Harbour, Bahamas. At the time of her death, Aaliyah was only 22 years-old.
Happy Heavenly Birthday, Aaliyah!
Photo: Barbie Instagram; Aaliyah Instagram
