Barbie has honoured the late Whitney Houston with a doll celebrating her musical legacy and unmistakable style.
Houston joins stars including David Bowie and Diana Ross who have been immortalised as part of the Barbie Signature Series.
The doll recreates Houston’s look from the music video for “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)”. It wears a pink bodycon midi dress, colourful earrings and white-and-blue heels, complete with the singer’s signature 1980s fringe and long, curly hair.
Unveiled nearly four decades after the song’s release and in celebration of Houston’s birthday, the doll pays tribute to her influence on music, entertainment and popular culture.
Nathan Baynard, vice-president and head of Barbie at Mattel, said: “Whitney Houston’s music has been the soundtrack to countless moments for fans around the world.
“Barbie is proud to honour her extraordinary legacy with the latest addition to the Barbie Signature Series.
“This doll celebrates her unmistakable style, joy and spirit. We hope it gives fans a meaningful way to celebrate the artist whose voice and influence continue to resonate around the world.”
The doll was unveiled during the fifth annual Whitney Houston Legacy of Love Gala, which raises funds for the late singer’s foundation and its work supporting young people.
Houston joins several musicians previously honoured by the Barbie Signature Series, including Miley Cyrus, Kylie Minogue, Stevie Nicks, Gloria Estefan, Tina Turner, Elvis Presley, Elton John and Juan Gabriel.
Houston became one of the best-selling artists in pop history after signing a recording contract as a teenager. Her hits included “How Will I Know”, “Saving All My Love for You” and her chart-topping rendition of “I Will Always Love You”.
She died in 2012 at the age of 48.— dpa
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