Ken doll has been in the market for 65 years now. It first hit the shelves in 1961. Ahead of its 65th birthday in March this year, Mattel, one of the global toy and family entertainment companies, announced Ken’s full name. Well, it is Kenneth Sean Carson.

So, Mattel was founded by Ruth Handler and Elliot Handler. The duo are husband and wife, and together they have a son whose name is Kenneth Handler. 

So, Ken’s full name is inspired by the duo’s son’s name as reported by Time Magazine. Incidentally, likewise Barbie’s name is also inspired from the couple’s daughter, whose name is Barbara.

The Ken doll was introduced as a counterpart to the famous Barbie doll. While introducing Ken, the company had released an advertisement and it said, “So now, Mattel brings you Ken, Barbie’s boyfriend, with a complete wardrobe of perfectly tailored clothes of unmatched quality. 

Now, Ken and Barbie meet for lunch at school, go to fraternity parties, and just relax together. Think of the fun you’ll have taking Barbie and Ken on dates, dressing each one just right. Get both Barbie and Ken and see where the romance will lead.”

What’s interesting is that Ken came into existence after kids wondered who Barbie’s boyfriend was. This is how Mattel came up with the idea of introducing Ken. 

Over the course of so many years, Ken has donned different professional hats. Almost 40 plus. From doctor, astronaut, surfer, rockstar to DJ, yoga instructor, among many more, Ken’s career choices have always complemented with that of Barbie’s.

In 2004, the iconic couple, Ken and Barbie broke up. However, they got back together in the year 2011. Mattel had built an interesting storyline around their breakup too. 

Over the course of so many years, Ken’s appearance and body build has undergone a lot of changes. From looking slim trim to flaunting a broad build, Ken has had multiple body types. What’s more is that his portrayal has also changed. Earlier he was “perfect boyfriend” and then he came into his own to realise his own sense of self.

In 2023, Barbie movie gave Ken a huge pop-culture resurgence and turned him into a symbol of identity, insecurity, and self-discovery. Actor Ryan Gosling had played the part of Ken.

Source: Money Control

--Agencies