Mattel Honors Olympic Figure Skater Kristi Yamaguchi with Inspired Barbie Doll

Mattel has unveiled a new Barbie doll inspired by Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi. The doll, part of Mattel's Inspiring Women Series, features Yamaguchi in a black figure skating leotard with gold accents, modeled after the costume she wore when she won the gold medal in figure skating at the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, France.

Yamaguchi, the first Asian American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in figure skating, expressed her pride and honor in being recognized alongside other influential women like Anna May Wong, Maya Angelou, and Rosa Parks. "I'm so honored to be included in this series with such an amazing group of women," Yamaguchi said.

The Kristi Yamaguchi Barbie doll includes details like a gold ribbon in her hair, silver earrings, a bouquet, and white skates. It accurately recreates Yamaguchi's Olympic look, including her sparkling black-and-gold brocade outfit and '90s-style bangs. "I'm so pleased with how the doll turned out, from the eyes to the face shape and of course the '90s bangs," Yamaguchi noted.

Why this matters: The release of the Kristi Yamaguchi-inspired Barbie doll is significant, as Asian American children have historically had limited options for dolls that looked like them. Mattel's efforts to diversify its offerings and feature real-life role models like Yamaguchi are seen as important steps in promoting inclusivity and representation.

Beyond her achievements on the ice, Yamaguchi has continued to inspire young women as the author of several best-selling children's books and the founder of the Always Dream organization focused on improving children's literacy. In honor of the new doll's release, Mattel will be making a $25,000 donation split between Always Dream and ASPIRE (Asian Sister Participating in Reaching Excellence).

The Kristi Yamaguchi Barbie doll is now available for preorder for $35. Its release coincides with Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May. Yamaguchi's daughters were initially surprised but excited about their mother becoming a Barbie doll. Experts say that dolls modeled after real people can help dispel stereotypes and provide effective role models for children.

Key Takeaways

• Mattel unveils Barbie doll inspired by Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi.
• Yamaguchi is the first Asian American woman to win Olympic gold in figure skating.
• Doll accurately recreates Yamaguchi's 1992 Olympic costume and appearance.
• Mattel donates $25,000 to Yamaguchi's literacy organizations in honor of the doll.
• Dolls based on real people can help promote inclusivity and effective role models.