Mattel launches Marilyn Monroe Barbie for centenary

Mattel has released a new collector Barbie inspired by Marilyn Monroe's iconic pink gown from the 1953 film Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, marking the centenary of the actress's birth. The doll, priced at $81, recreates the look from the musical number "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend" and went on sale on August 18, 2026 Source: Infobae.

Design and collaboration

The doll features a pink satin dress with a large bow, long gloves, and diamond-inspired jewelry, capturing Monroe's "unmistakable glamour" Source: Hoy. It was developed in collaboration with The Estate of Marilyn Monroe LLC to ensure authenticity Source: Listin Diario. Robert Best, Mattel's vice president and creative director of doll design, stated: "More than a tribute to this unforgettable look, we honor Marilyn as a pioneer... this doll celebrates the totality of her incredible legacy" Source: Hoy.

Collector details

This Barbie Signature edition is aimed at collectors and includes a certificate of authenticity. It uses the Aphrodite face sculpt and Model Muse body, designed by Robert Best and Linda Kyaw Source: Excelsior. It is the seventh Marilyn Monroe Barbie, following previous dolls inspired by her roles in The Seven Year Itch, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and How to Marry a Millionaire Source: Excelsior.

Pricing and availability

In Mexico, prices vary significantly by retailer, ranging from 1,300 to 2,900 pesos, while Mattel Creations lists it at 1,650 pesos Source: Excelsior. The doll is available in major US stores and on Mattel Creations Source: Infobae.

Broader centenary celebrations

The centenary is also marked by exhibitions such as "Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon" at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles and "Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait" at the National Portrait Gallery in London Source: Hoy.