A dream come true is how Laverne Cox describes the news of a new Tribute Collection Barbie Doll created in her likeness. In celebration of Cox’s 50th birthday on May 29 and to continue their commitment to increasing diversity across their collections, Barbie worked closely with the award-winning LGBTQ+ advocate to create a doll reflective of her appearance and style.
To help bring the doll to life, available for purchase May 25, Barbie’s design team researched her red carpet looks, and utilized skin tone and body sculpts samples that got Cox’s mark of approval.
“We couldn’t be more excited to celebrate award-winning actress, producer, writer and LGBTQ+ rights trailblazer Laverne Cox with a doll,” said Lisa McKnight, executive vice president and global head of Barbie and Dolls, Mattel. “We are proud to highlight the importance of inclusion and acceptance at every age and to recognize Laverne’s significant impact on culture with a Tribute Collection Barbie.”
Cox said Wednesday she’s been waiting for this moment for many years.
“It’s been a dream for years to work with Barbie to create my own doll,” she said. “I can’t wait for fans to find my doll on shelves and have the opportunity to add a Barbie doll modeled after a transgender person to their collection. I hope that people can look at this Barbie and dream big like I have in my career. The space of dreaming and manifesting is such a powerful source and leads you to achieve more than what you originally thought was possible.”
As part of the launch, Barbie is also making a donation in Cox’s name to TransFamilySOS, a nonprofit close to Laverne’s heart dedicated to creating a more gender affirming and accepting community.
The new Tribute Collection Laverne Cox Barbie Doll is available online.
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