Whitney Houston Barbie doll released by Mattel on singer's 63rd birthday

Mattel has released Whitney Houston Barbie inspired by singer's look in 'I Wanna Dance With Somebody' video

Mattel has released a new Barbie doll honouring Whitney Houston, with the launch timed to coincide with the late singer and actress's birthday on August 9.

Houston, who would have turned 63 in 2026, is the latest music icon to receive a Barbie inspired by her career and cultural legacy.

The doll was created in collaboration with Pat Houston, executor of Whitney Houston's estate and president of The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation.

According to Mattel, the doll celebrates Houston's "record-breaking career, legacy and timeless music that inspired generations of artists and continues to resonate with fans around the world".

The design draws inspiration from Houston's appearance in the music video for her 1987 hit "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)".

The Barbie features a purple tank dress, colourful drop earrings and eye makeup based on the singer's look in the video.

Barbie has launched a Whitney Houston doll. Here's how the company took inspiration from "the Voice" and how to buy the doll. https://t.co/WZATBsqOly

— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) August 9, 2026

Pat Houston said the doll represents a significant connection to one of the singer's ambitions.

"May this doll remind every child and every collector that dreams have no limits, excellence leaves a lasting imprint, and true greatness never goes out of style," Pat Houston said.

She also described the release as "making one of Whitney's dreams come true".

Whitney Houston's Sister-in-Law Pat Houston Personally Approved Singer's New Barbie Doll https://t.co/b6fyFzicwm

— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) August 9, 2026

The Barbie is available to purchase online through Amazon, Walmart, Target and Mattel's websites. It is also available at Target stores. The doll has a suggested retail price of $60.

Houston's career included music and acting, with the singer becoming one of the most commercially successful performers of her generation.

Her "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)" music video remains closely associated with her 1980s era and provided the visual reference for Mattel's latest design.

The Whitney Houston Barbie launched on August 9, the date of Houston's birthday, with Mattel positioning the doll as a tribute to her enduring music, career and influence on generations of artists and fans.