#59: Barbie’s Partner Is a Bit Younger
Barbie and Ken are one of the most recognizable fictional couples in pop culture. Barbie launched in 1959, and Ken came along in 1961 — which technically makes him two years younger than her. So yes, Barbie is older, but “cougar” might be pushing it a bit.
Over the years, both dolls have gone through major changes. In recent years, Mattel has made an effort to create more inclusive and diverse dolls — different body types, skin tones, hairstyles, and even LGBTQ+-friendly releases. Barbie’s world finally looks a little more like the real one.
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