Mattel launches the first transgender Barbie doll

Mattel launches for the first time a transsexual doll in tribute to the four-time Emmy nominated actress Laverne Cox and announced it in its press release on Wednesday, May 5 on its Mattel Creations website.

Below you can read the translation of the press release:

"It's time to celebrate another visionary, whose incredible contributions helped shape and impact our culture. With the latest doll in our Barbie Tribute Collection, we are proud to honor award-winning actress, producer, writer and prominent LGBTQ+ advocate Laverne Cox.

Laverne is a four-time Emmy-nominated actress, Emmy-winning producer, and the first transgender woman of color to have a lead role in a scripted television show. Laverne uses her voice to amplify the message of going beyond societal expectations to live more authentically. Laverne embodies the values of Tribute Collection, and we are delighted to have her be a part of it.

During our planning and design phases, the pandemic ruled out the possibility of in-person meetings, so we found different ways to collaborate. Video conferencing, email, and physical mail served to bridge the gap. We also send samples of the doll's body and skin tone to advance the design process.

For the fashion itself, the Barbie Signature team worked directly with Laverne to create an original design, a "triple threat ensemble" to represent how she shines on the red carpet. The blood red faux fur corset is trimmed with satin ribbons at all seams, and a blood red tulle dress falls gracefully over the costume. It is designed to create multiple looks, the "triple threat", by layering and removing pieces.

Stunning silver earrings and sparkly high-heeled boots complete her look, but there's a lot to the look. For her hair, our team mixed different shades of blonde and lightened with different shades of brown, to arrive at Laverne's signature honey blonde with a darker rooted look. For her makeup, the team opted for a classic smokey eye and a nude lip that Laverne loves to wear.

With multiple looks and a posable doll body for endless posing possibilities, we wouldn't be surprised if you unbox our Laverne Cox Barbie doll and use the included doll stand to display her in your collection. But if you want to keep it pristine in the original packaging, we also have a doll box suitable for display.

The Barbie Tribute Collection Laverne Cox doll is available now in our online store for $40.00, with no purchase limit. Get this historical doll for yourself and any friends who are fans!"

A divine doll, full of details, ideal to display in your showcase!