Laverne Cox can now add Barbie girl to her resume.
Mattel is paying homage to the actress and LGBTQ+ activist by launching a new Barbie in her likeness. Cox’s doll is historic as it’s the brand’s first-ever transgender Barbie.
“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,” Cox said in a statement. “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.”
The 50-year-old “Inventing Anna” star worked with Mattel’s design team to create her Barbie.
"I was like, 'Can we make her look more like me? And more African American?'" Cox told People. "And we had a conversation about highlights and lowlights because I'm blonde most of the time now, but I'm a Black girl, so I need a dark root. And we had a whole conversation about how they can't do that, but they could do dark lowlights."
The Barbie doll features multiple layered looks that can be peeled away into different ensembles, including an oxblood red tulle gown and a silver metallic bodysuit.
In addition to the doll, Mattel is also making a donation in Cox’s name to TransFamilySOS, a nonprofit that works toward creating a more gender affirming and accepting community.
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“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 also elaborated on how her Barbie has deeper meaning than simply being a toy considering the slew of anti-trans legislation being introduced in state legislatures around the country.
“That in this environment where trans kids are being attacked, that this can also be a celebration of transness, and also a space for them to dream, understand and be reminded that trans is beautiful," the "Orange Is the New Black" star told People. "That there's hope and possibility for them to be themselves."
Cox’s Barbie, which is part of Mattel’s Tribute Collection, is available now for $40 at Amazon, Target, Walmart and Mattel’s website.
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