Barbie, the world-renowned fashion doll, is set to make a splash in the world of manga, marking her 65th anniversary with a brand-new graphic novel series. This exciting development comes as Mattel partners with TOKYOPOP to bring the beloved doll and her adventures to a new generation of readers, showcasing her enduring appeal and adaptability. The new manga series is slated for release in 2026.
A New Chapter for a Timeless Icon
Since her debut on March 9, 1959, at the American International Toy Fair in New York City, Barbie has been more than just a doll; she’s been a cultural icon, a symbol of empowerment, and a reflection of changing societal norms. Created by Ruth Handler, co-founder of Mattel, Barbie was named after Handler’s daughter, Barbara. The doll, whose full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts, was conceived after Handler noticed her daughter playing with paper dolls and projecting adult roles onto them. This realization led to the creation of a doll with the figure of an adult woman, a departure from the baby dolls that dominated the toy market at the time. The first Barbie doll sported a black-and-white zebra striped swimsuit, a signature topknot ponytail, and was available in blonde or brunette.
This innovative approach to doll design captured the imagination of children and adults alike. Over the past six decades, Mattel has sold over a billion Barbie dolls, making it the company’s largest and most profitable line. Barbie’s journey has not been static; she has constantly evolved to reflect changing times, becoming a symbol of fashion, creativity, and empowerment.
Barbie’s Manga Makeover
The partnership between Mattel and TOKYOPOP signals a new direction for the Barbie brand, embracing the popular manga style to tell fresh stories and introduce the character to a wider audience. The graphic novels will feature original stories and artwork aimed at children aged 8-12, expanding Barbie’s reach into the realm of visual storytelling. This isn’t Barbie’s first foray into comics; she has previously appeared in a 63-issue series by Marvel, as well as a Cine-Manga series by TOKYOPOP. However, this new venture promises a more immersive experience, drawing on the distinct art style and storytelling techniques of manga.
Ryan Ferguson, Global Head of Publishing at Mattel, emphasized that Barbie and Hot Wheels have been symbols of “storytelling, creativity and inspiration, engaging audiences across generations.” This partnership with TOKYOPOP is part of Mattel’s ongoing strategy to expand its storytelling and strengthen its publishing imprint.
Manga-Style Storytelling
The manga series will be developed with a traditional right-to-left reading format, in keeping with Japanese publishing practices. This detail ensures that the graphic novels will immerse readers in the true manga experience. The stories will introduce new characters and adventures, offering fresh narratives within the Barbie universe.
This move is not unprecedented for TOKYOPOP, which has a history of adapting popular franchises into manga format. Past collaborations include titles based on video game franchises like Kingdom Hearts and films such as Pirates of the Caribbean and Stitch and the Samurai, demonstrating the company’s expertise in bringing diverse stories to life through manga.
Barbie’s Enduring Legacy
Barbie’s longevity can be attributed to her ability to adapt to changing social and cultural landscapes. From her early days as a fashion doll, she has taken on over 250 inspirational careers, including astronaut, pilot, firefighter, journalist, and entrepreneur. She first went to space in 1965, four years before man walked on the moon, and has run for president since 1992, showcasing a wide range of ambitions. The brand’s ongoing evolution aims to empower girls, encouraging them to be confident, daring, brave, and legendary.
The Barbie logo itself has also undergone several transformations over the years, reflecting the brand’s evolution. The original 1959 logo was handwritten in soft pink, evolving to feature bold 3D lettering in 1975, and various iterations that followed, before reverting to a classic script in 2009. The current logo is a callback to the original, underscoring Barbie’s timeless nature.
In celebration of her 65th anniversary, Mattel has released a special collectible doll that reimagines classic elements of the original Barbie. This doll wears a black and white gown inspired by the original swimsuit, complete with a waterfall ponytail, cat-eye sunglasses, and blue eyeshadow, as a nod to the doll’s earliest design. This anniversary is also marked by the release of the book, “Barbie: Her Inspiration, History, and Legacy,” which provides a detailed look at the doll’s history.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming manga series is just one of many ways Mattel is continuing to keep Barbie relevant and engaging for new audiences. By embracing new storytelling formats and mediums, Mattel is ensuring that Barbie remains a powerful force in the world of toys and entertainment. The debut of the Barbie manga in 2026 is highly anticipated by fans of the iconic doll and manga enthusiasts alike, marking a significant moment in Barbie’s enduring legacy.
