Barbie is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Marilyn Monroe’s birth with a new Barbie Signature collectible doll inspired by one of the Hollywood icon’s most memorable screen appearances.
The doll, launched in honour of what would have been Monroe’s 100th birthday, pays tribute to her lasting influence on film, fashion and popular culture. Born Norma Jeane Mortenson on 1 June 1926, Monroe rose from humble beginnings to become one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.
A tribute to an enduring Hollywood icon
Beyond her career as an actress and singer, Monroe was also a pioneering businesswoman. She became one of the first women in Hollywood to establish her own production company, Marilyn Monroe Productions, adding another dimension to her legacy.
The new Barbie Signature doll draws inspiration from Monroe’s performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” in the 1953 film Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, one of the roles that helped cement her status as a Hollywood legend.
The doll wears a bold pink gown featuring an oversized bow, dramatic gloves and sparkling diamond-inspired jewellery, recreating the glamour of one of cinema’s most recognisable fashion moments.
Created with Marilyn Monroe’s estate
The doll was created in close collaboration with The Estate of Marilyn Monroe LLC. Mattel’s Barbie design team worked throughout the creative process to capture Monroe’s glamour, ambition and distinctive style.
“Barbie has a rich history of celebrating Marilyn Monroe’s legendary style as both a fashion icon and beloved actress. As we celebrate her 100th birthday, we designed this doll as an homage to Marilyn, drawing inspiration from the pink satin gown and dazzling diamonds she wore in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. More than a tribute to this unforgettable look, we are honouring Marilyn as a pioneer—a savvy producer, a businesswoman and a boundary-breaking artist—and this doll celebrates the totality of her incredible legacy,” said Robert Best, Vice President, Dolls Design Creative Director at Mattel.
Part of Barbie’s Marilyn Monroe legacy
The new release continues Barbie’s long-standing history of celebrating Monroe. Between 1997 and 2009, the brand released a collection of dolls inspired by her most memorable film roles and fashion moments.
The latest Barbie Signature release features an all-new doll sculpt and outfit, giving collectors a fresh interpretation of the Hollywood star while marking her centenary.
Availability
The Marilyn Monroe Barbie Signature Doll became available from 18 August through Mattel Creations and selected leading retailers.
Mattel is a global play and family entertainment company behind brands including Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, American Girl, Thomas & Friends, UNO, Masters of the Universe, Matchbox, Monster High, Polly Pocket and Barney.
Founded in 1945, the company produces toys, content, consumer products, digital offerings and live experiences, with its products distributed through major retail and ecommerce partners.
