Ke'Tara Wells/Staff
Social media raved when Mattel Inc. introduced a new line of realistic body types for its Barbie collection last week, but now many are wondering what role Barbie’s long-time boyfriend will have in the evolution.
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Ken is muscular, thin and has a chiseled six-pack. He stands out amongst Barbie’s new line of 33 figures featuring seven unique skin tones and a wide spectrum of body types. Unlike Ken, who flaunts blue and slick blond hair, the new dolls also have 24 hairstyles and 22 eye colors.
“We proudly add three new body types to our line. Meet the new dolls,” Mattel tweeted out.
I'm excited with all these changes to Barbie's figure and body size, because that means we're only months away from a "Dad Bod Ken."
— Nick-Or-Treat (@NickFlora) January 28, 2016
You can follow Barbie’s unique friends using #TheDollEvolves.
Mattel celebrated the launch with a private celebrity dinner at Sunset Tower Hotel. The guest list was as diverse as the debuting lineup and featured famous women such as Gwen Stefani, Queen Latifah and Jeannie Mai.
After the launch, Twitter users started questioning whether Ken would evolve into a more realistic representation of manhood.
One Twitter user recommended a ‘dad bod’ with a V-neck shirt, hoodie or possibly an XBOX controller. Many agreed it could eliminate the toymaker’s unrealistic image for women and men.
Really wanna give girls realistic expectations? Give Ken a dad-bod, a v-neck T, a hoodie, New Balances, and an XBOX controller. #Barbie
— Nathan Nix (@nathan_nix) January 28, 2016
“We are excited to literally be changing the face of the brand,” Evelyn Mazzocco, Barbie’s global general manager and senior vice president, said.
“These new dolls represent a line that is more reflective of the world girls see around them. The variety in body type, skin tones and style allows girls to find a doll that speaks to them. We believe we have a responsibility to girls and parents to reflect a broader view of beauty.”