Award-Winning Actress Viola Davis Is Being Honored With Her Own Barbie Doll

It’s in honor of Barbie’s 65th anniversary!

To kick off Women’s History Month, Mattel has announced a new collection of dolls paying homage to the 65th anniversary of Barbie. Included among the honorees is none other than Academy Award-winning actress Viola Davis, The Grio reports. Released annually to spotlight global changemakers, the limited edition Barbies have enhanced the brand’s diversity and ushered in a new generation of Barbie fans. Davis represents the United States alongside other famous entertainers in the Role Models Barbie category.

“Honestly, I wanted this Barbie to make little 6-year-old Viola squeal. It is my biggest gift to her…my lifelong mission and legacy to make her feel pretty, seen, and worthy. No words…just joy,” Davis told reporters. 

 

 

 

 

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The Barbie is fashioned in Davis’ likeness and takes a note from her 2018 Golden Globes look, the doll decked in a classic Black gown, adorned with draped necklaces and a clutch purse. Davis’ doll smiles brightly as she sports her curly fro. Davis now joins other notable figures who have received Barbie dolls in their likeness, including Maya Angelou, Shonda Rhimes, and Madam C.J. Walker. 

The annual collection is another extension of the brand’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and representation. Mattel’s 65th anniversary Barbie also features a Black doll adorned with braids. 

“For many years, we realized we had an opportunity not only to position Barbie as a role model but to use the brand to create likeness dolls of real women to give girls exposure to real people breaking through glass ceilings and achieving amazing things,” said Lisa McKnight, executive VP, and chief brand officer for Mattel. 

“Barbie’s story has never been just about her. It’s about the countless young kids she’s inspired and the millions of stories she helped them imagine along the way…For the past 65 years, Barbie has used her global platform to empower girls to dream big, explore their limitless potential, and direct their own narrative to shape their future,” added Krista Berger, senior VP of Barbie. 

The Viola Davis doll will not be available for purchase, but you can buy the 65th-anniversary commemorative Barbie here.