Images of a reported Aaliyah doll began circulating online months ago, with fans wondering if the reported images were indeed real.
After much speculation, Mattel confirmed and unveiled the official Aalyah Barbie doll on Thursday (Jan. 16) in honor of her 46th birthday.
Pre-sales began for the doll, which is part of the Barbie Music Collector Series, and celebrates the legacy of the late “Princess of R&B,” who died in 2001 at the age of 22.
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Her brother Rasha Haughton spoke about the release and inspiration for the doll via GMA:
Inspired by her iconic “One in a Million” music video, the doll is dressed in a black faux leather ensemble featuring studded lace-up details, a zippered vest and and statement shades. Her signature hairstyle, with hair sweeping swoop over one eye, completes the look.
Barbie’s design team collaborated with Aaliyah’s brother, Rashad Haughton, to really capture the singer’s trendsetting style.
“I can vividly remember my sister playing with her favorite Barbie dolls for hours when we were kids. She would make them sing, dance, and perform little concerts,” said Haughton in a statement. “It’s clear to me now that she was imagining dreams that would eventually become reality when she embarked on a career in entertainment at just fifteen years old.”
He added, “Inspiring confidence, belief in yourself and embracing who you truly are is the essence of Barbie. My sister would be ecstatic to see her legacy celebrated this way.”
Barbie’s doll release also marks a milestone for the brand’s Music Collector Series, which has previously celebrated legends like Gloria Estefan, Elton John, and Stevie Nicks.
“We hope the Aaliyah Barbie serves as a powerful reminder to her loyal fans and Barbie collectors everywhere that, like Aaliyah, they can unlock their limitless potential and achieve anything they set their minds to,” said senior vice president of Barbie and global head of dolls at Mattel Krista Berger in a statement.
Aaliyah’s dear friend and collaborator, Missy Elliott took to social media to react to the doll announcement.
Babygirl the IMPACT that you have left in the years you spent here with the world is UNDENIABLE🙌🏾Leaving generations to know your name “AALIYAH ” They continue to learn of your UNIQUE Music ORIGINAL Style & GLOWING personality🙏🏾 You will NEVER be 4Gotten💜 Much love to you… https://t.co/dD3GY86HCJ
— Missy Elliott (@MissyElliott) January 16, 2025
Shortly after the pre-sales opened online, they were sold out at the Mattel shop, Target, and other online retailers. Official sales start January 26, 2025.
Happy Birthday baby girl!
