Barbie's boyfriend Ken, named after creator Ruth Handler's son, was introduced in 1961. Incidentally, Barbie is named after Handler's daughter Barbara.
In 2004, Mattel, which regularly releases news items about Barbie and her friends, declared that Barbie has split up with Ken after a 43-year courtship. However, one of the world's most famous couples got back together in 2006.
Barbie's most well-known friend is the brunette Skipper, Her other friends, the Hispanic Teresa and African American Christie, represent the ethnic diversity of America.
Barbie has over forty pets and several cars. She also takes on a variety of professions including Astronaut Barbie, Pilot Barbie, Doctor Barbie, Chef Barbie, Surgeon Barbie and CEO Barbie.
Advertisement
