When Mattel first introduced the iconic Barbie doll to the public in 1959, few could have predicted the mega-success that was to come. Not only has the beloved doll provided decades of imaginative playtime for young girls all over the world, but her profits have skyrocketed over the years. Last week, Barbie celebrated a massive milestone: her movies have earned over $1 billion at the box office worldwide.
Barbie’s journey to success at the box office began with her first feature-length animated film, Barbie in the Nutcracker, in 2001. That movie was followed by 2002’s Barbie as Rapunzel and 2003’s Barbie of Swan Lake. The films were well-received by children around the globe, and their popularity only continued to grow. With that momentum, Mattel began to invest even more heavily into Barbie films.
Since 2001, Mattel has released 10 full-length Barbie movies, along with several resulting spin-off shows and TV specials, which have been released in more than 150 countries. Over the years, these films and shows have explored everything from time travel to magic, highlighting Barbie’s unforgettable aspirational quality.
The key to Barbie’s international success has been her ability to connect with audiences everywhere. She promotes messages of optimism, empowerment and confidence that resonate with young girls (and boys!) everywhere. Barbie’s rising popularity also ensures that she continues to play a prominent and permanent role in the culture. As a result, audiences continue to flock to Mattel’s movie theaters around the world.
Barbie’s success comes as no surprise to Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz. “Barbie is a powerful cultural icon and a beloved global brand,” he said. “She has been a role model for generations of young girls, and her ability to inspire and entertain continues to be a source of immense pride for us.”
It looks like Barbie’s success is here to stay. With her first-ever live-action film, Barbie: Spy Squad, set to hit theaters later this year, there’s no doubt that this iconic doll will be around for many more years to come.