*Mattel has unveiled a new Barbie doll in its Tribute Collection, paying homage to Debbie Allen, the celebrated dancer, actress, choreographer, and director. As iHeart reports, the doll captures her likeness from her role as Lydia Grant in the 1980s TV series “Fame.”
“As a little girl growing up in Houston, Texas, I never imagined this moment,” Allen wrote in an Instagram post. “To now see a Barbie that reflects my journey, my joy, and my dreams. May every child see themselves and know they can be anything.”
The debut aligns with the 25th anniversary of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, her nonprofit dedicated to fostering young talent. The Barbie doll’s detailed design showcases Allen in a sparkling top, fringe-trimmed pants, gold accessories, and leg warmers. The Tribute Collection places Allen alongside other luminaries like Lucille Ball, Laverne Cox, and Vera Wang. Her doll is now available for purchase on Mattel’s official website.
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Allen’s release follows Mattel’s earlier tribute to another pop culture icon: late R&B singer Aaliyah. Earlier this year, on what would have been her 46th birthday, Mattel released a special edition Barbie in their Music Series. Inspired by Aaliyah’s look in the “One in a Million” music video, the $55 collector’s doll features a faux leather outfit reflecting her edgy, signature style, according to Ice Cream Convos.
The Aaliyah Barbie initially launched for Barbie Club 59 members and a limited release at Target, selling out almost immediately. On the singer’s official X page, the post read: “One in a Million Today on Aaliyah’s birthday, Barbie honors the Princess of R&B’s unmatched legacy as a once-in-a-generation talent. The Aaliyah Barbie doll remembers her iconic style, keeping her influence alive across generations.”
The back of the doll’s packaging further commemorates her legacy: “To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Aaliyah’s debut album, Barbie pays homage to the ‘Princess of R&B.’ Affectionately known as ‘Baby Girl,’ Aaliyah pioneered a sound in a typically male-dominated genre that resonated with industry professionals and fans alike. Her legacy transcends music, fashion, and culture, and lives on today.”
Speaking with PEOPLE about the creation of the doll, Aaliyah’s brother, Rashad Haughton, said, “[Aaliyah] was a rightist. She did things so they were right and they felt good. So she would be so happy of how the execution went down and that it looks so much like her.”
One in a Million ?Today on Aaliyah’s birthday, Barbie honors the Princess of R&B’s unmatched legacy as a once-in-a-generation talent. The Aaliyah Barbie doll remembers her iconic style, keeping her influence alive across generations. #Barbie #Aaliyah
https://t.co/IOPKPku7ky pic.twitter.com/pjLEGhENPL— Aaliyah (@aaliyah) January 16, 2025
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Barbie Honors Aaliyah with a Special Edition Doll Inspired by ‘One in a Million’
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