Barbie: From Movie Star to Tinseltown's Jack-of-all-Trades

Despite the overarching message of the Barbie movie, Barbie herself has faced prolonged criticism for the impact of the doll on the self-image of young girls. Critics argue that Barbie's portrayal of an unrealistic female body type has not evolved quickly enough and that even career-oriented versions of the doll still reinforce gender stereotypes. In response, Mattel aims to use the latest working Barbies to demonstrate to young fans that Barbie is equally ambitious about pursuing less traditional and glamorous career paths in an industry with historical gender disparities.

Playing off the film's setting in Hollywood, the "Barbie" movie has made history by earning an incredible $1.03 billion at the global box office, placing it among the elite group of movies that have surpassed the $1 billion mark. In addition, "Barbie" has also secured two Golden Globe wins.

Mattel has revealed its line of 2024 Barbie Career of the Year-themed dolls, each priced at $50. The toymaker has stated that this year's career choices pay tribute to women in the film industry, encompassing a range of roles.

Barbie is a cinematographer, studio executive, director and, of course, a movie star.

Mattel

The lineup of Barbies includes Studio Executive Barbie, decked out in a stylish blue blazer, leather skirt, black heels, and smartphone. Director Barbie sports a cozy denim jumpsuit, sneakers, a headset, and a script in hand. Cinematographer Barbie rocks a "Chase Dreams" t-shirt, sneakers, and carries a professional camera. And last but not least, Movie Star Barbie stuns in a sequin floor-length gown, adorned with a beaded silver necklace, and clutching her award.

The toymaker said the four film career dolls are meant to encourage girls to be creative and imaginative and think about pursuing a future job in the movie industry.

Margot Robbie attended the 81st Golden Globe Awards on January 7, 2024, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Image courtesy of Mattel and Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP.

At the Golden Globes, Margot Robbie channeled the iconic 1970s Superstar Barbie, embracing a cultural statement. Mattel's aim to have Barbie embody culturally significant and inspirational roles in male-dominated fields is more evident than ever before.

In 1959, Barbie made her debut as a light-skinned, slender, blonde doll with a narrow waist, ample bosom, and high heels. This image remained unchanged for decades as Barbie's popularity continued to soar. However, as doll sales began to decline, Mattel decided to take a different approach. They started creating more inclusive and diverse Barbie dolls, aiming for a more realistic depiction of women.

Billie Eilish and Finneas at the 2024 Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills.

Rich Polk/Golden Globes 2024/Getty Images

Billie Eilish gets emotional accepting Golden Globe for Barbie song

Barbie was reintroduced in 2016 with four body types, seven skin tones, 22 eye colors, and 24 hairstyles. Her evolution continued with the Barbie Fashionistas line three years later. According to Mattel, the focus of the Barbie Fashionistas line is to provide kids with more diverse representations of beauty and to help combat the stigma around physical disabilities.

In 2023, Mattel made history by releasing the first-ever Barbie doll representing a person with Down syndrome. Additionally, the Barbie career dolls for that year showcased the representation of women in male-dominated sports-related jobs, such as coach Barbie, referee Barbie, and General Manager Barbie.