Barbie doll 'Ken' finally makes it as a Toy Hall of Fame finalist

A 1999 Cool Shave Ken doll holds flowers and a briefcase in this studio portrait. On March 13, 2001, Mattel toy company celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Ken doll which was originally introduced March 13, 1961 at the American International Toy Fair. Originating with his crew cut look and evolving through the funky disco styles of the ''70s and ''80s, to the trendy styles of the ''90s, Ken has been a worldwide pop culture favorite for every era and for several generations.
A 1999 Cool Shave Ken doll holds flowers and a briefcase in this studio portrait. On March 13, 2001, Mattel toy company celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Ken doll which was originally introduced March 13, 1961 at the American International Toy Fair. Originating with his crew cut look and evolving through the funky disco styles of the ''70s and ''80s, to the trendy styles of the ''90s, Ken has been a worldwide pop culture favorite for every era and for several generations. Photo credit Mattel/Newsmakers

The Toy Hall of Fame picks one lucky toy every year to highlight its impact on kids, and even adults. This year, the Barbie doll "Ken" finally got some recognition, and maybe thanks to the Barbie movie.

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The National Toy Hall of Fame made the announcement today that Ken makes the list for the first time. Remember, Barbie went into the Toy Hall of Fame in the very first year in 1998.

Other nominees this year include baseball cards, bingo, Cabbage Patch Kids, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Connect Four. Nerf and Slime are also on the finalist list.

Stay up to date on which toy will win this year here.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Mattel/Newsmakers